tional Park

pretive Plan 
ational Park

rpretive Plan 

f Interpretive Planning

r
 Background 1

2

tion 4

mes 5

 6

e Patterns 6

s 13

l 13

enter 16

ontact Station 24

 Wells 24

nd Actions 29

9

1

sultants 33

oncept 35

eek Visitor Center Rehabilitation Project Drawings 36

atic Accessibility Guidelines for Interpretive Media 40
Badwater and the Panamint Mountains
Park (DEVA) is an active

asts and wonders, from

w-covered peaks, spectac

s to beautiful sand dunes,

otty's Castle. For thousands

Shoshone Tribe has lived in

at now encompasses the

Monument was established

ation under the Antiquities

y 11, 1933. The monument

ged and changed to Death

Congressional action on

he passage of the California

Over 1.3 million acres of

bringing the total acreage

% of the park is designated

he largest national park unit

tates.

Park is the lowest point in

e of the hottest places in the

eological museum, contain

f the earth's geologic eras,

gic features including allu

playas, salt pans, and volca

s greatest assets today are

es that stretch toward dis

whelming silence.

Park includes all of Death

north/south-trending

ween two major block

s: the Amargosa Range on

int Range on the west.

hest peak in the park and in

the Panamint Mountains, rises 11,049 feet abovesea level and lies only 15 miles from the lowestpoint in North America in the Badwater Basin saltpan, 282 feet below sea level. The California DesertProtection Act added most of Saline, Eureka,northern Panamint, and Greenwater valleys to thepark.The diversity of Death Valley's seven plant communities is reflected in three biotic life zones: thelower Sonoran, the Canadian, and theArctic/Alpine in portions of the Panamint Range.Three vegetation types are represented: scrub,desert woodland, and coniferous forest. A varietyof wildlife species are supported in this environment, including 51 species of native mammals,approximately 350 species of birds, 36 species ofreptiles, three species of amphibians, and threespecies and one subspecies of native fishes. Smallmammals, such as kangaroo rats and rabbits, aremore numerous than large mammals, such as thedesert bighorn, coyote, bobcat, mountain lion, andmule deer. The park's top resource management priority isthe protection of the endangered Devils Hole pupfish. Devils Hole is a limestone cave located on asmall track of land east of the park in southwestNevada. It was added to Death Valley NationalMonument is 1952. This 40 acre tract is part of alarger spring complex in Nevada called AshMeadows. Devils Hole falls within the boundariesof Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge (whosecreation in 1984 was precipitated by the protectionof Devils Hole). This limestone cave is the onlynatural habitat of the Devils Hole pupfish(Cyprinodon diabolis). The underground aquiferdetermines the cave's natural water level, which

1

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
has no stream flow out of the cave. Historic and

ongoing mining of groundwater in AmargosaValley has sometimes directly lowered the waterlevel in Devils Hole, occasionally exposing a shallow limestone shelf on which the pupfish dependfor food and spawning.Decline of the Devils Hole pupfish and the continued drop of water levels in the cave drove litigationresulting in a U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholdingthe government's right to water to maintain a minimum water level in the cave (US v. Cappaert, 1976).In recent years the Devils Hole pupfish populationhas continued to decline. Even though there hasbeen a corresponding drop in water levels,researchers are trying to determine if the currentincidents are related.For millennia, American Indian peoples lived within the Death Valley area, using the resources andlands to sustain their lives and cultures. Today'stribal governments and communities historicallyassociated with the region include the Panamint orTimbisha Shoshone of Death Valley; NorthernPaiute of Benton, Big Pine, Bishop, FortIndependence, and Lone Pine; and the SouthernPaiute of Las Vegas and Pahrump. The report,"The Timbisha Shoshone Tribal Homeland(1999)," and subsequent legislation (2000) signedby President William J. Clinton, affirm the continued presence of the Tribe in the park and in otherparts of its ancestral homeland. The TimbishaShoshone Homeland Act addresses the NationalPark Service’s need to more fully incorporate thecultural history, values, and activities of theTimbisha Shoshone Tribe into the overall management of Death Valley National Park. The tribe’soccupation of this desert land has shaped the cultural practices of the tribe and has left an imprinton the land. The tribe will play an irreplaceable

role in the interpretation of park features andresources, providing a living link to the distant pastand enriching the experience of park visitors.Many historic properties and landscapes existwithin the park, and those which meet the criteriahave been listed on the National Register ofHistoric Places. Most sites contain structures orother tangible remains of the activities that tookplace there. Death Valley is unique because it displays a continuum of mining activities from at leastthe 1860s to the present day. Many historic miningresources are of particular significance eitherbecause similar resources are not found elsewherewithin the national park system, or because theyare in a better state of preservation than examplesfound elsewhere.

PLANNING BACKGROUNDThis Long-Range Interpretive Plan (LRIP) forDeath Valley National Park is a component of thepark's Comprehensive Interpretive Plan (CIP), asoutlined in National Park Service Director'sOrders-6 (DO-6). Using the park's mission, purpose, and resource significance statements, plusthe primary interpretive themes and visitor experience goals, this plan articulates a vision for thepark's interpretive future, and recommends themedia, facilities, and programs best suited formeeting visitor needs, achieving managementgoals, and telling park stories. The last interpretive plan for the park was anInterpretive Prospectus completed in 1990 byHarpers Ferry Center. Since then, the park hasbeen greatly expanded, including changing its designation from a national monument to a nationalpark. Changes in the primary interpretive themes,along with changing visitor use patterns and goals,also have necessitated a new long-range plan forthe park's overall interpretive program. 
ral Management Plan

y National Park was

primary planning document

g, including this LRIP,

ns proposed in the GMP. 

ending a new parkwide

 in the GMP that relate

on, orientation, education,

ude the following:

retive operation, programs,

egrate the geological, cul

spects of the park.

ional outreach program in

nities and developing part

hools and similar groups.

ys to improve the living his

r means of interpreting

tion of prehistoric, historic,

merican Indian cultures into

 themes, focusing on

the desert environment.

sible) interpretation and

orientation for visitors before they enter the park.

• Developing unstaffed orientation/information

stations within the park along the five majorentrance roads.

• Posting signs at key road intersections leading to

significant features.

• Cooperating with other agencies and organizations to make information available along

approach routes to the park.

• Operating the major visitor centers at Furnace

Creek and Scotty's Castle.

• Preparing a comprehensive design plan to update

and improve the Furnace Creek visitor center.

• Using additional structures at Scotty's Castle for

interpretation and/or education.

This LRIP is not an end in itself, but rather, itestablishes the overall framework for the nextphases of the process-program planning, andmedia planning, design, and production over thenext 10+ years. Using the recommendations in thisLRIP, the park also will develop AnnualImplementation Plans and an Interpretive Database to complete the remaining two components of the CIP as stated in DO-6.

3

Salt Polygons &Black Mountains
Park Mission

Death Valley National Park dedicates itself to protecting significant desert features that provideworld class scenic, scientific, and educationalopportunities for visitors and academics toexplore, study, and enjoy.Park PurposePark purpose is the reason or reasons for which apark area was established. These statements arebased on the park's enabling legislation and legislative history. Purpose statements are important to planningbecause they are basic to all other assumptionsabout the park and the ways in which it should beused and managed. The purposes of Death Valley National Park are asfollows:• Preserve the unrivaled scenic, geologic, and natural resources of these unique natural landscapes,

while perpetuating significant and diverseecosystems of the California desert in their natural state. Ensure the maximum protection ofwilderness values provided by law.

• Preserve the cultural resources of the California

desert associated with prehistoric, historic andcontemporary American Indian culture, patternsof western exploration, settlement and miningendeavors.

• Provide opportunities for compatible public outdoor recreation and promote the public's understanding and appreciation of the California

desert by interpreting the natural and culturalresources.

• Retain and enhance opportunities for scientific

research in undisturbed ecosystems.

PARK SIGNIFICANCEThe significance of a park is summarized in statements that capture the essence of the park'simportance to our natural and cultural heritage.Significance statements are not the same as aninventory of significant resources. While theresource inventory can be the basis on which significance is determined, the significance statements describe the importance or distinctivenessof the aggregate of resources in a park. Knowingthe park's significance helps set resource protection priorities, identify primary park interpretivethemes, and develop desirable visitor experiences.Statements of significance describe the distinctivevalues of DEVA's resources, why these values areimportant within a national context, and why theycontribute to DEVA's purpose.The resources of Death Valley National Park aresignificant for the following reasons:• Death Valley National Park contains the lowest

point in North America at 282 feet below sealevel. The valley floor receives the least precipitation in the United States (average 1.9 inches peryear) and is the site of the nation's highest andthe world's second highest recorded temperature(134 degrees Fahrenheit or 57 degrees Celsius).

• Death Valley National Park is world renowned

for its exposed, complex and diverse geology andtectonics, and for its unusual geologic features,providing a natural geologic museum that represents a substantial portion of the earth's history.

• The extremely colorful, complex, and highly visible geology and steep, rugged mountains and

canyons provide some of the most dramatic visual landscapes in the United States. 

• Death Valley National Park contains one of the

PLANNING FOUNDATION
and significant fossil

tinuous volcanic histories.

 Park contains five major

presenting all types of dune

one of the only places on

ty of dune types occurs in

It also contains the highest

Eureka Sand Dunes.

 Park is one of the largest

d warm desert in the world.

f the Park is designated

 unique opportunities for

rimitive adventure in an

stem.

tors' first impression, Death

s natural resources are

ntaining a large variety of

mmunity types. The area

ses of creosote bush valleys

typical of the Mojave

ditions and isolation pro

usually high number of

ies (as epitomized by the

that are highly adaptable to

n the continuous home of

om prehistoric cultures to

sha Shoshone Tribe.

 Park contains an unusually

preserved archeological

rt and alignments.

s architectural style, quality,

on of antiques and art

ote, isolated desert location

n icon that has immense

 Park has an extensive and

g history representing over

chnology.

has been a continuous presence of the U.S. military in the region for a host of test and training activities involving aircraft. Historic crash sites are reminders of the commit- ment and sacrifices our military personnel have made in the defense of this country. PRIMARY INTERPRETIVE THEMES Interpretive themes are those ideas/concepts that are critical for achieving visitor understanding and appreciation of the significance of Death Valley National Park. Primary themes do not include everything that may be interpreted, but they do provide the foundation from which programs and media level themes can be developed. All interpre- tive efforts (through both personal and non-per- sonal services) should relate to one or more of the primary themes. Effective interpretation results when visitors are able to connect the concepts with resources and derive something meaningful from the experience. The following are the primary interpretive themes for Death Valley National Park (the sequence does not imply any prioritization): • The dramatic landscape of the park reveals over a billion years of earth history and dynamic con- tinuing geologic processes. • From below sea level to high mountain ranges, the environmental conditions and isolated habi- tats of Death Valley shape life and support diver- sity. • Death Valley National Park is a place of cultural and natural contrasts and extremes. • The Death Valley area has lured and challenged people from prehistoric times to the present. • Death Valley National Park's finite and irreplace- able wilderness is where "wildness," solitude, and heritage values are enjoyed, preserved, and protected for this and future generations.

5

Badwater Basin (top)Charcoal Kilns (bottom)
• The perception of "wilderness" in Death Valley

provides an enhanced rich experience for parkvisitors from all walks of life.

• Death Valley National Park offers opportunities

for scientific research and learning that benefitsthe park, visitors, and society as a whole.

• Activities inside and outside park boundaries

present continuing challenges to balancinghuman use with resource preservation.

VISITOR EXPERIENCE GOALSFew visitors come to parks just to learn. Visitorexperience goals describe what physical, intellectual, and emotional experiences should be available. It is what visitors do, sense, feel, think, andlearn and includes knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and values. It is affected by experiences priorto the visit and affects behavior after the visit. Visitors come to parks seeking something of personal value and relevance for themselves. Visitorexperience goals are statements that describe thosefundamental visitor experience opportunitieswhich Death Valley National Park, through its visitor services and interpretive program, most wantsto facilitate. Visitors cannot be required to havecertain experiences, but the park has identifiedimportant experiences that should be made available. In planning facilities, interpretive media, and personal services, Death Valley National Park willwork to create and enhance visitors' opportunitiesto:• Experience quality, environmentally friendly

facilities, personal services, and the opportunityto obtain accurate information through a varietyof media.

• Experience solitude and "wildness" on the individual's and the park's own terms within a rea- sonable expectation of safety. • Learn about the cultural and natural histories of Death Valley National Park from diverse points of view. • Enrich their experience in the park by direct interaction with the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe through a variety of personal and non-personal interpretive services. •Gain an understanding of the mission of the National Park Service, the significance of Death Valley National Park and a sense of personal stewardship. • Experience true wilderness, dark night skies, and extreme silence. • Experience the hottest, driest, and lowest spot in North America. • Gain an understanding of the significance of the Death Valley Scotty (Scotty's Castle) Historic District through a variety of interpretive media and experiences. • Enjoy desert scenery that is relatively unimpaired and pristine. VISITATION AND VISITOR USE PAT- TERNS The following information regarding park visitors and visitation patterns is derived from data main- tained by the Socio-Economic Services Division (WASO) in Denver, and from two separate NPS Visitor Services Project surveys. Figure 1 shows the total recreation visits over a ten- year period from 1995-2004, and Figure 2 illus- trates the monthly recreation visits for 2004. While there is a drop after April, the park staff has noticed that visitation has been evening out throughout the year to the point where summer is no longer considered the slow season. However,
7

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004

Annual Visitation 1995-2004

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Monthly Visitation 2004

2

Planning has moved beyond constructing an average profile andlabeling him “the visitor.”
the average visitor stay in summer is often measured in hours, while in cooler months it can be

more than one day. Also, the park staff has noticedthat more of the summer visitors are of foreign origin, possibly people who are curious to experiencethe extreme heat.The park tracks the number of vehicle entries atnine key areas. The total annual number of vehicles for each of these areas for 2003 is show inTable 1.The following data is summarized from each oftwo NPS Visitor Services Project surveys. Surveyresults are relevant only for the time period inwhich they were conducted. Similar surveys conducted at other times of the year may yield verydifferent results. The first, titled Visitor ServicesProject Death Valley National MonumentBackcountry, was conducted during March 21-27,1994. Visitors were sampled as they entered variousbackcountry locations, including West Side Road,Harry Wade Road, Hole-in the-Wall Road, GoldenCanyon, Mosaic Canyon, Grotto Canyon, ButteValley, Saline Valley, Teakettle Junction, Marbleand Cottonwood Canyons, Eureka-Dunes Road,and Titus Canyon. Results of the survey showedthat:

• Visitors were most often in family groups (42%)

or friends groups (29%). Groups most oftenconsisted of two people (45%). The most common visitor ages were 36-50 years old (36%), 21-35 years old (24%) and 15 years or younger (12%).Most (56%) were repeat visitors to the park.International visitors constituted 9% of all visitors. Forty-nine percent of international visitorscame from Germany and 16% from Canada.United States visitors came from California(59%) and Oregon (20%) and many other states.

• Common activities for visitors were visiting scenic areas (97%), day hiking on trails (74%), visiting mining ruins/historic sites (73%), picnicking

(45%), driving dirt roads in vehicles other than4x4's (45%), and driving dirt roads in 4x4's(44%).

• The community that the greatest proportion of

visitors drove through just before entering thepark was Trona (29%). The most used backcountry areas were Titus Canyon and Mosaic/GrottoCanyons (each 43%). Of all backcountry areas,more visitors stopped first at Grotto Canyon(24%). 

• Most visitors stayed two to four days in the

Death Valley area (64%); 21% stayed 6 days ormore. Visitors identified their reasons for visitingas seeing the desert scenery (96%), experiencingwilderness and open space (82%), enjoyingrecreation (81%), and enjoying solitude and quiet(78%).

• The most important features to visitors' backcountry experience were hiking on trails (80%),

rest room and garbage disposal facilities (63%),dirt roads passable by vehicles other than 4x4(56%), open camping (55%), and developedcampsites/campgrounds (55%). Several featureswere not considered important to visitors' backcountry experience: motorcycle riding (80%), 

Entrance Total Annual Vehicles 

Big Pine 1,679 

Daylight 26,547 

Grapevine 8,043 

Ryan 125,174 

Wildrose 14,403 

Ashford 9,793 

Townes 100,608 

Saline Valley No Data 

Furnace Creek 129,476 

Table 1
k animals (73%), and per

ckcountry (66%).

ow the number of people

 backcountry compared

ted. The largest proportion

"about as crowded as I

ectional signs and the park

most used and most impor

aid maps would be the most

tem during a future visit.

cs most visitors said would

 during a future visit were

d Death Valley National

conducted during

Visitors were sampled as

actions and facilities

ek Visitor Center, Scotty's

skie Point, Dante's View,

General Store, Stovepipe

int Springs Resort. The

owed that:

he visitors were in family

cent of Death Valley visi

f two; 24% were in groups

ercent of visitors were in

o visitors were in school

(41%) were ages 21-35, 36%

less than 3% were aged 15

visitors, 69% were interna

were from Germany (42%),

%), Holland (9%), and 22

ed States visitors were from

vada (9%), Florida (7%),

• Most visitors (82%) were visiting Death Valley for

the first time. Two-thirds of the visitors (66%)stayed less than one day; 29 % stayed one or twodays. Common activities at Death Valley weresightseeing (96%), photography (92%), and hiking less than two hours (42%). The most oftenlisted reason for visiting Death Valley (96%) wasto view desert scenery.

• Most visitors (89%) said the park was one of several destinations on this trip. Many visitors

(82%) stopped in Las Vegas, Nevada on theirway to or from the park. Las Vegas also was themost common starting point and destination onthe days visitors arrived at or left Death Valley.Panamint Springs (accessed from Lone Pine andRidgecrest, California) and Death Valley Junctionwere the two most commonly used parkentrances and exits.

• Visitors listed the number of nights they stayed in

different types of accommodations in and outside the park. Motels were the most used type ofaccommodation. One-third of visitor groups(33%) stayed in a motel for one night in the park.Many groups (82%) stayed one or more nights inmotels outside the park.

• The most visited places in Death Valley were

Furnace Creek (82%), Zabriskie Point (72%),and the Sand Dunes (66%). The most importantfeatures or qualities to visitors were scenic vistas,wilderness/open space, and the desert experience.

These survey results can be helpful in developinginformational and interpretive media and programs. The studies should be consulted directly foradditional information, and to compare similaritiesand differences between user groups. In addition to information about people who dovisit Death Valley, the park staff identified a num9

Sunset Campground
ber of groups who generally do not visit. These

groups include:• Hispanic/Latino Americans• Inner city residents• African Americans• Elementary and secondary school students• Organized eco-tour groups• Special populationsEXISTING CONDITIONSThe following is a brief and generalized description of visitor experiences and interpretive mediaand programs as they existed at the onset of thislong-range interpretive planning process (2003-4).Emphasis purposely is placed on deficiencies,issues, and concerns that will be addressed in theplan recommendations rather than on things thatare working well or that are beyond the scope of along-range interpretive plan. The purpose of thissection is to provide a baseline that may help tojustify some of the plan's proposed actions.Outreach and Pre-ArrivalDeath Valley has world-wide recognition. It ismentioned in almost every textbook on Americangeography. Many older people remember the"Death Valley Days" television series, and youngerfolks are aware of the park from the filming of the"Star Wars" trilogy. And while most people haveheard of Death Valley, there are many misconceptions, and most really aren't aware of the nature,extent, and significance of the resources. A wealth of printed, audiovisual, and electronicdata is available for people who wish to learnsomething about Death Valley. However, findingaccurate and official information can be a challenge. 

While written information requests have diminished significantly due to information being available on the Internet, the park receives a large number of phone and email requests. Navigating thephone tree can be confusing, and responding tothe volume of phone and email inquiries can becumbersome.The park web site has a lot of useful information,but some pathways are not easy to navigate.Material for educators and programs that wouldbe attractive to young people is lacking.The rapid growth of Las Vegas and surroundingarea is changing the visitor profile at Death Valley.More and more area residents are discovering thatthe park is only a day-trip away from home.Reaching these new audiences (including thosewho have never visited) with information aboutthe park is essential.

On-ArrivalThere are numerous entry roads to the park. Thepark has one entrance station at Grapevine nearScotty's Castle which is not always staffed.Primarily due to remoteness and/or highway ownership by the State of California, there are no standard NPS entrance stations. Some of the relativelynew entry signs have deteriorated, and there is little information at or near the entrances to give visitors a sense of arrival or help them plan their stay.A number of unstaffed information/fee kiosks havebeen installed at pullouts along some of the parkroads. The intent is for visitors to stop, pay theentrance fee at automated fee machines, andobtain some basic park information, including thepark newspaper. There are no accurate statisticson how many people stop at the kiosks, or howmany of those who do stop actually pay the fee.
e structural problems, and

ided in the most effective

signing is provided along

es to many key attractions

d side roads, like "Twenty

nd "Mustard Canyon" have

how long the road is or

 People have been known

-way roads, become con

get lost, and turn around.

popular trailheads lack

ances, safety precautions,

eatures that can be seen. 

or Center

itor Center was built in 1960

ation was around 250,000.

on is now more than triple

ng does not meet accessi

itor bottlenecks develop on

grown and is dominated by

In addition, Las Vegas is the

he US and has a new inter

esidents are increasingly

ey.

ter exhibits are over 40

isrepair and out-of-date.

urate, inappropriate,

 they do not reflect the cur

aches or current knowledge

and communicating

ssues. Still other exhibits

view of American Indians

Valley, a view that has

 The 1.3 million acre addition to the park in 1994 is not included in most of the center's orientation or interpretive media. The current audiovisual program also is out-of-date and ineffective. The building has numerous structural defects (including a leaky roof which necessitated remov- ing some artwork from behind the information desk), and the current design does not begin to meet current sustainability guidelines. The build- ing is not energy efficient with an old and often malfunctioning HVAC system. These conditions mean that during the summer interpreters often work in temperatures over 90 degrees inside the building. The Mission 66 landscaping of non- native plant species, green lawns, and the failed attempt of creating a water feature in the court- yard, tends to send the wrong message to visitors about an agency charged with conserving resources. In 1998 a Value Analysis Study was conducted for the rehabilitation of the Furnace Creek Visitor Center. In 2000 a Determination of Eligibility was com- pleted to nominate the visitor center to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The study determined that the building is significant under Criteria A for its association with the Mission 66 program and under Criteria C for its significance in distinctive characteristics of a type and period of construction. The building is an exceptional example of the Park Service Modern style as designed by Cecil Doty, and it retains a high level of integrity. The criteria for the signifi- cance of the building and the cultural landscape will need to be considered as the park implements the recommendations for improving the visitor services and interpretive media proposed in this document. 

11

Exhibit Room, FurnaceCreek Visitor Center

Scottys Castle
Scotty's Castle

Most of the interpretive media and programs atScotty's Castle are relatively new and appear towork well. A number of historic cars and wagons are stored inthe stable. These vehicles require extensive restoration/conservation. They could become a valuableaddition to the visitor experience and interpretivestory of the site. There is a desire to display more of the objects inthe collection, and to provide programmatic accessto inaccessible locations. The Cookhouse, one of three original structuresfrom the 1922 Scotty's Castle complex, burned onApril 13, 1991. At the time the building was used forpark offices. The offices have been moved intotemporary facilities on site. Reconstructing theCookhouse has potential for restoring a significantelement of the historic scene, and possibly forexpanding interpretive media and/or educationprograms. However, completing the reconstruction may not be feasible within the 10-year scopeof this interpretive plan.The Lower Vine Ranch is the site of Scotty's cabin.However, the site is also important to theShoshone and it contains rich archeologicalresources. The site is not interpreted and visitorsare not directed to the cabin, though it has greatpotential for ranger guided activities.Wayside ExhibitsThe park has a mixture of wayside exhibits reflecting multiple generations of planning, design, andproduction. Some waysides are intrusive on thelandscape. Others have suffered from vandalism orhave severely deteriorated from the harsh environment. 

As stated earlier, some key trailheads and entrypoints lack important information for visitors. 

Education ProgramWhile the park does have limited on-site and webbased programs for children, it does not have awell developed curriculum-based education program. As the Las Vegas region continues to grow,more people (including school groups) will discover the park. There is a great opportunity for the

park to tap into the education community anddevelop strong and positive connections. At the onset of this planning process, the vacantpark education specialist position had not beenrefilled.
ription of media and pro

s for Death Valley National

ation is designed to further

mmunicate the park's pur

nce, interpretive themes,

goals. Implementation of

s will help ensure that visi

nd informed, and that they

meaningful connections

tangible resources.

program or media proposal

special considerations, and

as about their presentation.

mber that these are only

 not limit the creativity

dia or program planning

On the other hand, the rec

cific enough to provide

s C cost estimates, and

n which these creative ener

mentation process, the park

ogram developers need to

the products reflect ele

nterpretive themes and visi

address the Timbisha

ation with Death Valley as

sential that the park main

ue and active participation

rding the planning, design,

me-related media and pro

Outreach and Pre-ArrivalGeneral and trip planning information regardingDeath Valley National Park will continue to beprovided through traditional means such asanswering regular mail, phone and email requests.Responses will continue to be tailored to specificinquiries, and pre-developed packets of materialwill continue to be used in handling more common requests. All printed information will containappropriate phone numbers and addresses, including email addresses and the park web site url. Allmaterials will be reviewed on a regular basis toensure they remain accurate, appropriate, and current.The staff will continue to explore ways to improvethe park's telephone system and simplify or eliminate the complex phone tree structure. Staff at thevisitor center information desk should not be burdened with handling phone requests. The primaryreasons to keep the front desk clear of answeringthe park's general phone lines include providinguninterrupted service to visitors in the lobby andproviding an open phone line for incoming emergency phone calls.Publishers of regional, national, and internationaltourism literature often seek periodic updates oftheir information. To the extent possible, the parkwill ensure that printed and electronic tourism literature promoting the park remains accurate,appropriate, and current.The World Wide Web offers a variety of methodsto reach future visitors, potential visitors, and virtual visitors before ever entering park lands.Primary goals for the park web page include:

13

RECOMMENDATIONS

Recommendations shouldconstitute the most effectivemeans of achieving desiredoutcomes.
• Providing visitors with pertinent information for

planning their trip.

• Providing material in multiple languages due to

the large number of international visitors.

• Developing a web presence above and beyond

the NPS profile system that serves as a centralportal to all DEVA web content.

• Strengthening the online experience for young

virtual visitors.

• Developing an online repository for literary,

artistic, cultural, and scientific information forresearchers. 

• Providing interpretive experiences for those who

can only have a virtual park experience or whomay only see the park from the inside of a vehicle. 

Every unit of the NPS is provided a web pagethrough the "park profile" system. These websitesare designed and maintained in Washington D.C.and are often the very first thing a virtual visitorwill see that represents the park. These pages provide the visitor with contact information, park designation, and other basic level information. Eachpark also is provided space for their "In Depth"page (soon to be changed to a “Features” section),which when used correctly can give the most upto-date information and announcements, and offervirtual users an experience beyond the delivery oftextual information in a static manner. The "InDepth/Features" page offers the park an opportunity to express its individuality and give virtual visitors a more dynamic and engaging look at thepark.The most important recommendation for theDeath Valley "Features" website section is that thefront page should be a portal directly to all contentthat is available online by the park. This means thata visitor should be able to gain access to any documents, images, or information with two clicks or fewer. The importance of this is to make the user experience as simple and intuitive as possible. Content should be arranged in a thematic and con- sistent manner. Developing an interface that allows a visitor rapid access to all of the content available is essential for visitors who are looking for specific information and are not just "surfers." Providing information in multiple languages is a great way to ensure that international visitors are prepared for their visit, and receive the same infor- mation as an English speaking visitor. It is especial- ly important that non-English speaking visitors are aware of the park's extreme climate, and the nec- essary precautions to take. Children are certainly not strangers to the World Wide Web and they potentially can account for much of the online visitation. It is important that children feel connected to the park even though they may not be able to visit in person. The park has made an excellent start in providing material for children, and there is an opportunity to take it to the next level. In addition to the virtual fieldtrip, there also should be interactive exercises or games to help children grasp the park's interpretive themes. In addition to offering interpretive exercises for children, the website also should be a place for scholarly research. Considering the geological and historical significance of the park, the website could be a centralized repository for information. Students ranging from high school to graduate school should be able to find research material and bibliographic sources to assist them if they are studying Death Valley. Appendix A shows a visual example of a ‘Feature” page concept that would serve as a portal to all
viewed at:

va.

iovisual program (see

Center section) also can

hrough television broad

e AV is not a good reference

and elicit emotion and get

siting the park.

he park website and the

n website will allow people

ted materials before and/or

ducation program materials

cation Program section),

ted on the park website.

fit area educators, but it

s around the world who

ortunity to physically visit

s and long distances

as, the park is in need of an

ttee and a parkwide sign

NPS identity, to make people

 national park and all the

t entails, and to provide

ess orientation to park fea

e park should consult with

nator to initiate this plan in

ers Ferry Center. The park

onsider new, more durable

ctional signs that tell travel

r attractions. 

park, visitors are accus

n entrance station. Due to

highway ownership issues and the remoteness ofsome entrances, this is not possible at Death Valleyexcept at Grapevine. The park will continue to relyon self-serve pullouts and the Furnace CreekVisitor Center for visitor orientation and voluntaryfee payment. The sign plan also should evaluatethe effectiveness of the current highway signs thatask people to stop at the information stations andpay the entrance fee. The current octagonal information/fee collectionkiosks should be replaced with information/orientation structures that are more attractive anddurable in the desert climate. Where feasible, theseinformation stations should be located at or nearthe park boundary and the official entrance sign.Many visitors like to photograph park entrancesigns, and people would be more receptive to"one-stop-shopping" for their park entry experience. If it is not feasible to locate information stations at the park boundary, then they should besited to capitalize on spectacular views, like thatfrom Hell's Gate and Father Crowley Point. Upright orientation exhibits at these entry locations will help establish NPS identity, orient visitors, and introduce Death Valley's key features. Fora two-season approach to visitor safety andresource protection, the design could consider atleast one panel for a changeable summer/wintertreatment. At these locations, visitors also will realize that they are entering a special place, and thatthey may need to look hard to find some of thespecial resources. Development of these exhibits,along with development of the information stationdesign, should be conducted in concert with aparkwide wayside exhibit proposal and plan. Thiswill ensure uniformity and compatibility of designand may also result in cost savings. 

15

View from Zabriskie Point Trail
Since most vehicles today have a CD player, it is

recommended that a CD be developed that candeliver audio descriptions/interpretations of different features in the park. The CD could be givento visitors when they pay their entrance fee. Theycould be distributed at the Furnace Creek andScotty's Castle Visitor Centers, or possibly dispensed at the fee collection machines at or nearthe park entrances. The mechanics of distributingthis media (including how well they hold up in theheat) would require experimentation, but it wouldoffer visitors a degree of interpretation and orientation that they may not otherwise receive.As visitors drive through the park they would beable to track through their CD for interpretivemessages about their current location. The CDeventually could be authored to target specificaudiences (including different languages) or specific visitor interests. The interpretive messageswould be cued by signs (or attachments to existingsigns) at various locations along park roads.The use of Travelers Information Stations (TIS) todeliver low-watt radio broadcasts was considered,but rejected. The messages are often of inferiorquality, and studies have shown that they reachonly about 20% of park visitors. Furnace Creek Visitor CenterThis long-range interpretive plan endorses the preferred alternative recommendations for theFurnace Creek Visitor Center developed duringthe 1998 Value Analysis (VA) Report. This VA studyidentified the essential functions of the visitor center as:• Interpreting park story/themes through a variety

of media and approaches

• Providing visitor services (e.g. rest rooms, shade,

cooling, emergency services, seating)

• Providing orientation/information (e.g. park,

region, national park system, area services)

• Promoting visitor safety• Providing/encouraging appreciation/inspiration• Promoting/demonstrating sustainability/conservation• Responding to changing needs (flexibility)• Promoting effective visitor circulation• Providing optimal use of spaceWith its outdated media, poor visitor circulationpatterns, and lack of sustainable design elements,the current Mission 66 structure is inadequate.Keeping in mind that the structure also is beingconsidered for the NRHP, the park will need toconsider the significant building features identifiedin the Determination of Eligibility. The VA reportrecommends:• Rehabilitating the existing structure to improve

sustainability, energy conservation, and visitorexperience. This would include adding insulation, new flooring and roof, asbestos abatement,replacing windows, and upgrading electrical andHVAC systems.

• Expanding the lobby to the north, adding 1,295

additional square feet (including vestibules) tothe currently congested area, which will improvecirculation and access to the theater, exhibits,information area, and provide energy-efficientairlocks.

• Converting the existing small theater into a cooperating association sales area, moving sales out of

the lobby, which will improve circulation, reducecongestion, and provide a better space for displaying interpretive publications and other items.

• Converting the existing large theater into a 190-

seat theater with an elevated, accessible projection room, providing adequate space for anintroductory video program, and for most interpretive talks.
ts that interpret all primary

nt visitors to directly expe

Existing exhibits and arti

litated whenever possible.

he report it states that over

e existing exhibits was con

hey are obsolete and out

rrespond to existing inter

don't fit with new design;

 sufficiently effective.)

would house exhibits that

eriodically, to reflect cur

environmental issues.

visual programs which

oductory video program to

er, and four short video

porated into exhibits.

dscape immediately around

viding a better approach

tation at the visitor center

xotic vegetation with native

by drip irrigation. Removing

s, patio, and reflecting

ith walkways and seating to

se of outdoor areas, to use

pretation, and to improve

existing site and building

site and building concepts

 B, and serve as the basis

sions.

endations stem from dis

g-range interpretive plan

xpand on many of the above

on to the important func

r information, orientation,

ecommended that interpre

 center provide an integrated story line that would illustrate and emphasize the interrelationships with the land, climate, plants/animals, and people. Entry The interpretive experience at the visitor center would actually begin as visitors approach the building. The thermometer and the elevation sign are very popular with visitors and should remain as outdoor exhibit elements; however, there is great potential to create a more evocative and meaning- ful entry experience for visitors. Other outdoor approach features would highlight a variety of simulated park habitats or life zones that show visitors the great diversity to be found here. Examples could include planted areas, simu- lated mud cracks, an alluvial fan, salt formations, or animal tracks that would raise visitor curiosity and promote questions. Interpretive sculptures also could be integrated into the habitat vignettes to show aspects of human presence or wildlife in Death Valley. Potential sculptures might include an Indian woman grinding seeds, and Indian man hunting, a prospector looking at an ore sample, or even a desert bighorn sheep. These simulated landscape features would lead visitors into the building where they could discov- er and learn more about these integrated and theme-related topics. These vignettes also would reinforce the fact that visitors may see evidence of wildlife and human occupation in the desert, but not necessarily the people or animals themselves. Orientation exhibits also would be an important component of the outdoor exhibit experience, and especially useful for visitors who arrive after hours. The design and content might be similar to that developed for the unstaffed information kiosks

17

Sand Dunes nearStovepipe Wells
near the park entrances, including the ability to

rotate safety information between summer andwinter. Additional or more in-depthinformation/orientation media would be developed inside the lobby.The outdoor exhibits need to be closely coordinated with the architecture and landscape design ofthe facility. They also need to be located where visitors can view them in some degree of comfort (i.e.under the proposed shade canopy), but theyshould not impede visitor circulation.

Lobby

As visitors pass through the proposed airlockentrance they will arrive in an expanded visitorcenter lobby. The current information desk podswould be incorporated into the redesign, as well assome type of relief model of the park, possiblyreusing the existing model from the exhibit room.The relief model (cleaned and repaired where necessary) would include some type of reader rail andLED or fiber optic lighting to identify features inthe landscape without needing to place labelsdirectly on the surface. Proximity to the information desks also would allow staff to use the modelas a visual aid for visitor orientation or short informal interpretive talks.Other exhibits in the lobby would expand on basicsafety issues, backcountry use, and current issues.Safety messages might include video/sound orcomputer based interactive elements showing visitors doing things properly and safely. The use ofsound in any exhibits will need to be carefullydesigned to ensure that it does not adverselyimpact other center functions.The idea of presenting current issues affecting thepark in a changeable/rotating newsstand format

was proposed. This format would be compellingand allow items to be changed easily. The designalso might enable visitors to weigh in on variousissues. This concept has additional implications forthe park website as well.The current display of free handouts, the touchtable, and other displays would be retained, butevaluated individually as to whether they shouldbe redesigned.For the foreseeable future, fee collection operations will be part of the visitor experience in thelobby. The orientation and layout of the information pods should be designed to better distinguishthe fee collection stations from the regular visitorinformation stations. This will reduce confusionfor visitors on where they need to pay their feesand should also help provide for the safety andsecurity of the fee collection staff.Care will be taken to avoid overfilling the lobbywith media. Open space is critical for visitor reception, orientation, gathering, sitting, and making initial contact with groups.

Exhibit Room

As stated in the VA report, all of the current displays in the exhibit room should be removed. Itmay be possible (where appropriate) to reuse someindividual objects in the new design, but thiswould be determined on a case-by-case basis. Removing the center island and reestablishing arelief model in the lobby will significantly open theexhibit room and reveal a space consisting ofapproximately 3,300 square feet. The large openspace also will promote random exploration andcreate opportunities to use large graphics to reinforce the grandeur of the park. 
ng views of the outside

 in the VA report) also will

t into the space. While a

ng interpretive links, light

n the morning when direct

the space, will require spe

derations. 

ed that the structural rehab

 done in concert with the

new media. This will

ses share ideas, resolve dif

unified result. 

d have an overarching

mersing visitors in the variety

ntroducing them to ele

imary interpretive themes.

e exhibit space are to:

me-r

elated stories-not

o

nent o

ver ot

hers. One way

present multiple and/or

s. Another approach would

possible) natural and cultur

s t

hem

atically. For example,

associated with mining

lements into t

he exhibit

e presentation of geologic

cult subject to interpret)

mechanically interactive

n the order of those at the

ocky Mountain National

ve no electrical compo

interactive exhibits on the

Mountains.

Consultation with appropriate park partners andwith the Timbisha Shoshone will be essential in theplanning and design of exhibit and other mediathat touch on cultural and/or theme-related topics.The Timbisha Shoshone have expressed a strongdesire to have a role in telling their story, interpreting the ties to their land, and letting visitors knowthat they are an active and living culture.The following exhibit scenario (provided by HFCExhibit Designer Michael Lacome) is divided intofive sections, and serves to illustrate how thesemajor goals could be met. The specific media treatments presented are only suggestive; however, theinterpretive messages/concepts and desired visitorexperiences are important proposed recommendations. Section A:The transition zone between the lobby and themain exhibit area would contain large formatgraphics showing the wide variety of landscapes inthe park from snow capped peaks to parched valley floor and from verdant oasis to a seemingly lifeless salt pan. Visitors will grasp the enormous variety of landscapes in the park and that this wilderness harbors a corresponding variety of life formsand human history.Quotes associated with the graphics can presentmultiple perspectives of the origin and significanceof the valley. Indian creation stories, and othervoices that speak of the "soul" of the place,beyond its physical nature, will make visitors awarethat people have lived here for thousands of yearsand have developed an intimate knowledge andrelationship to its resources. The voices couldinclude and reflect those in the landscape vignettesthat visitors experienced on their approach to thevisitor center.

19

Desert Contrasts
Section B:

The introductory exhibits in Section A would transition into the geology story of Death Valley. The"voices" of prospectors, explorers, or geologistscould describe their discoveries. The exhibitswould be a combination of interactive models toshow geological concepts like uplift, subduction,basin and range, etc. Other exhibits would utilizespecimens and graphic panels incorporating original art to illustrate additional geologic processesthat formed the area. A short 3-5 minute audiovisual presentation could compress geologic time tohelp people visualize certain geologic processes insummary fashion.Section C:The geologic exhibits transition into geographicalphenomena like weather, erosion, and formationof soils. These exhibits would present the climaticchanges that Death Valley and the region haveexperienced over the last 10,000 years thatchanged it from a relatively wet environment to thedeeply arid one of today. Exhibits might include alarge format artist rendered view of Lake Manleyfrom a point in the park that still exists. The artistcreated view would morph into the view seentoday. Other images and objects would help visitors better understand the processes that produceclimatic extremes at Death Valley. In addition, acomputer animation could clearly show the rainshadow effect of the Sierras on the Death Valleyregion.Section D:The scene next transitions to one depicting the living environment. The "voices" could be those ofIndians, scientists, and others to offer multipleperspectives of the desert flora and fauna. AnIndian woman could guide visitors through thestory of plant adaptations to Death Valley from the

perspective of a gatherer, one who understandsnatural cycles of the valley and mountains. AnIndian man, perhaps from the perspective of ahunter, might relate the habits of certain animals.These views could be intertwined with some of themost current scientific knowledge of plants andanimals in the valley. The multiple perspectives on the plant and animallife of Death Valley could be represented by a diorama that depicts different ecological settings andtheir distinctive flora and fauna. Various low-techinteractive devices (mostly touchable items andmodels) would be incorporated into this section.Graphics would include panels with original art,illustrations, and photographs.An introduction of the human presence in DeathValley would be made near the conclusion of thissection. Early human artifacts in cases along withtouchable reproduction items would help tietogether the close relationships early people hadwith their environment. Large format historicimages of Paiute and Shoshone people and lifeways would be introduced along with objects thatmake direct connections to the natural resourcesvia their manufacture and/or use. Section E:This section continues the story of Indian peopleand their presence in Death Valley up to the present day. The "voices" and other media in this portion of the exhibit will allow visitors to discoverthat this is the homeland of the TimbishaShoshone, and that they are a living people whovalue their long, close, and continuing relationshipwith the land. This section also tells the story of the 49ers, mining, tourism, and the establishment of the national
del (perhaps full-scale) of a

d oxen and including sim

, artifacts in cases, and

ld tell the story of the gold

of the name "Death Valley."

ent of this display could

d preparation as keys to

or example, visitors could

ons (i.e. how much water)

urney across the valley. This

h historic and present day

 miners and prospectors

the mining efforts of the

centuries. Large format

mages of mining operations

g visitors into the story.

facts (some large), and

m borax) would support the

ount the era when riches

d sought by many in the val

region.

e "voices" of the miners

rism is the story of Albert

d Walter Scott. Scotty's

f money from Johnson and

 the mining era. The house

jor park attraction and cul

bit that introduces this

ters will show the connec

d American History, and

 see the real thing. 

ng era would be replaced

tourism. Tourists from the

ovide the "voices" of those

lue the intangible riches of

to explore the unique features, experience the extreme climate, and enjoy the solitude of Death Valley. The story would be supported by large graphics of early tourist activi- ties and by advertisements and documents pro- moting Death Valley as a tourist destination. Since the 1930s there has been a strong military presence in the desert in the form of aviation test- ing and training. An exhibit that helps to illustrate how the desert landscape not only attracted tourists, but how it has been and continues to be important in the support of the countru’s freedom is recommended. A small dedicated audiovisual space, perhaps designed like an early camp tent at Stovepipe Wells, would show a short film that addresses the creation of the National Monument and the cur- rent mission and purpose of Death Valley National Park. This could include showing the competing recreational and special use requests the park must deal with (i.e. special bicycle and marathon races, vehicle testing, and commercial and non-commer- cial filming). Bookstore The VA report recommends moving the cooperat- ing association bookstore into the current small theater space. This will provide adequate room for this function, and greatly improve visitor circula- tion in the lobby. This location also can be closed off in the evenings when the large theater is being used for interpretive programs. There is concern that the new configuration will separate the bookstore from the rest of the visitor center areas resulting in reduced visitor traffic to the bookstore. This would translate to a subse- quent reduction in sales revenues. One solution would be to locate the primary entrance to or exit

from the theater in the book sales area.

21

Desert Five SpotView from Leadfield Mining Structure
With the development of new interpretive themes,

it is recommended that the cooperating associationconduct a Scope of Sales study. This process evaluates all current sales and free items with regard toprice range, theme(s) addressed, and audience(s)served. The results can be used to identify gaps inthe publication program and to develop publication program priorities.

Theater

This plan supports the VA report proposal to adaptthe existing large theater into a 190-seat theater,and to retain the flat floor. While a sloped theaterfloor is often preferable to provide a proper viewing angle, the existing high ceiling can easily compensate for this.A new park film will provide an intellectual andemotional orientation to Death Valley. The primary theme, “The Death Valley area has lured andchallenged people from prehistoric times to the present,” will provide the primary focus for the production; however, as with many interpretive programs,elements of all the themes (where appropriate) willbe included. The new film will portray the grandeur, vastness,and scale of the park, balanced with smaller elements like pupfish, snails, birds and plant life.Some scenes may require aerial photography. Viewers also will discover the extreme contrasts

and diversity in the park. The desert bloom ofspring contrasted with the searing heat of summer,along with the changes that occur in traveling fromthe valley floor to the mountain peaks could beshown dramatically. In viewing the film, visitors will discover that the

park is much too big to see in one day. It will motivate them to go to some areas, and show them things they may not be able to see without proper preparation, fitness, equipment, or a four-wheel drive vehicle. Illustrating scenes from different sea- sons may encourage viewers to return at different times of year. Two versions of the film are proposed. A 26 minute version would be produced that could be used as a sales item, for outreach/education programs, and for television broadcasts (e.g. PBS). This film would be edited into a shorter 15-18 minute version that would be shown in the visitor center theater. However, in summer when visitors are more will- ing to spend a longer time indoors, the full-length version of the film could be shown in the theater. A switch at the information desk could activate the long or short version. Courtyard The covered ramada proposed in the VA report will allow for seasonal interpretive programs and informal visitor gatherings in the courtyard. Moveable seating would allow visitors and inter- preters to take best advantage of the sun or shade. The use of outdoor art and/or native landscaping could inspire a contemplative experience in the courtyard, without creating a heavy interpretive focus. Replacement of exotic species with native plant- ings will not only save money and water, but it will convey an implicit conservation message that the NPS practices what it preaches. Small ancillary waysides could be considered to identify some of the plants and perhaps mention something about their use by Native peoples. Scotty's Castle The living history program continues to be an excellent way of providing interpretive tours of
rs are extremely popular

elf-sustaining; and, it is

hat they continue. The uni

es tours of the castle base

m also are very effective and

ark should continue to look

s opportunities to learn

nce more of the castle

options to expand the vari

 include guided tours of

 the chimes tower.

services could add more

tive programs and expand

n the North District

atural history talks and

on desk, and cooperating

n the Gas House are rela

condition. However, light

nformation desk are inade

ket sales operation shares

ace with regular visitor cen

es sales are conducted in a

g the cooler fall, winter,

hile there is an expressed

onal space for exhibiting

um collection, it was felt

panding during the life of

ic. Besides, much of the

in context in the castle.

ogrammed for restoration

RIP, then consideration

oring the building's poten

or education functions. The

for exhibits to display and

ms from the collection. The

come a site for future on

s and activities that would

include the interpretation of preservation andcuratorial activities. The changeable exhibit case that was part of thecurrent exhibit design for the Gas House is notbeing used, and some old exhibits have beenmoved into its place. The purpose of this case wasto allow for rotating exhibits and the display ofadditional items in the collection. It is recommended that the old exhibits be removed and thechangeable case be upgraded if necessary and usedfor its intended purpose.The park has provided for several means of accessibility. A virtual tour of the house is available onthe park website, and segments of Johnson's homemovies are shown in the exhibit hall. A wheelchairlift is provided for visitors unable to negotiate thestairs to the second floor. To improve the programmatic accessibility, it is proposed that the castle virtual tour be redone and made available in theexhibit room. It is recommended that the vehicles in the stablereceive much-needed curation/restoration and thatthey be interpreted in this location. The stablewould become an important part of a self-guidingtour of the complex. The only change recommended for the furnishedrooms is to replace the bright-colored chairs thatvisitors can use with something less intrusive onthe historic scene.Even though a self-guiding booklet of the Castlegrounds is available as a sales item, it is recommended that a series of unobtrusive waysideexhibit panels be considered to enhance the visitor’s experience of the outbuildings and sites.

23

Weather Vane at Scottys Castle

Organ at Scottys Castle
Beatty/Rhyolite Visitor Contact

StationThe visitor contact station at Beatty serves animportant function, but it needs to move. The current building is not adequate and is in poor condition. A visitor facility in this area has the potentialto reach people traveling on Route 95 and to interest them in visiting the park. The facility also isgood for public relations in the community andsurrounding area.The community is trying to improve its tourismstatus. There is interest in possibly developing acommunity/multi-agency visitor center and havingthe NPS become part of it. A couple of potentialsites are being considered. The process of recommending and/or selecting asite for a new visitor contact station is beyond thescope of a long-range interpretive plan. However,regardless of the location, the facility needs to bestaffed and to perform the following functions:• Be easily seen and accessible by travelers.• Provide park and regional information/orientation services (including information about road

conditions in Titus Canyon, etc.)

• Project a NPS identity (using consistent imagery,

fonts, arrowhead, etc.)

• Contain cooperating association sales• Inspire people to visit the park• Permit fee collection • Provide a place for contacting groups, including

school groups

• Contain a video monitor for showing themerelated videos, including the new park filmEmigrant and Stovepipe WellsThe structure at Emigrant was discussed regardingits potential to serve as a visitor contact station.

However, it was felt that this location presents toogreat of a safety hazard with traffic on the highway. A new ranger/visitor contact station at StovepipeWells is planned for construction in FY 2006/2007.The new facility will fit the same footprint of theformer building which was destroyed in a windstorm. The visitor use area also will be about thesame square footage. It is recommended that somevisitor orientation/interpretation treatment beincluded in the new structure to meet the needs ofvisitors to this area of the park. Limited book saleswill continue as well as fee collection operations.

Wayside ExhibitsSome of the recommendations related to a parkwide sign plan and informational wayside exhibitsalso appear in the On-Arrival section of this document. Encompassing a vast area, with many sites in seeming isolation, wayside exhibits can reinforce thepark's identity and connect people to its significantfeatures. At this stage in the park's interpretiveevolution, a parkwide approach to waysides woulddramatically improve the outdoor media at DeathValley. A parkwide wayside exhibit plan, with consistent design and interpretive style, could stitchtogether far flung features into a coherent whole.

Orientation and Trailhead Exhibits

New upright orientation exhibits at or near thepark's entrances would help establish NPS identity, orient visitors, and introduce Death Valley's keyfeatures. These exhibits could include after-hoursorientation at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.For a two-season approach to safety and resourceprotection, a parkwide proposal could consider atleast one panel for a changeable summer/wintertreatment.
d exhibits also are needed at

as Golden Canyon,

e Wonder Mine, Zabriskie

n to orient potential hikers

ail experience.

hemes

ain and topography are

the story, wayside exhibits

 to connect people to the

ures of the landscape, from

ns. Because the majority of

park via automobile, a way

nd plan should carefully

and associated landscaping.

yside exhibit design should

nd resource protection

anel Materials

is extremely rough on out

s embedments, in particu

 intense heat and sun.

lain enamel would appear

r low profile exhibits,

led porcelain panels show

 Replacement costs are

ch may argue against them

w digital laminated panels

ficient solution in the

Exhibit Bases

 low profile bases are not

re intrusive on the land

nt they interfere with the

g interpreted. A new park

should recommend a

dard design for all low pro

s.

Parkwide Sign Plan

With multiple entrances, and long distancesbetween developed areas, the park is in need of aparkwide sign plan, to help establish NPS identity,to make people aware of being within a nationalpark and all the special experiences that entails,and to provide more consistent, seamless orientation to park features and functions. The parkshould consult with the regional sign coordinatorto initiate the plan, in consultation with HFC.Personal ServicesA wide variety of personal services activities willcontinue to be an essential component of the overall interpretive program at Death Valley NationalPark. These programs have the unparalleledadvantage of being inspiring, versatile, alive, andtailored to the needs of individuals and groups. Aninterpretive staff presence helps with the protection of fragile resources. Interpreters, whetherbehind an information desk, roving, leading a tour,giving a talk, or conducting a demonstration, arethe best of all interactive tools in enabling visitorsto experience, understand, appreciate, and makepersonal connections with resources. In spite of their advantages, however, personalservices interpretive programs have limitations.They can be costly, often limited in number, andsometimes only reach a small percentage of visitors. Quality and accuracy must be maintainedthrough regular audits and continual educationand training. Discussions and recommendations regarding personal services interpretation appear throughoutthis document, but are summarized here to reinforce their importance in communicating theinterpretive themes and meeting visitor experiencegoals.

25

Golden Canyon
The living history program at Scotty's Castle offers

an excellent way to experience the site; it isextremely popular with visitors; it is self-sustaining; and, it is highly recommended that it continue.The uniformed personal services tours of theCastle basement and tunnel system are very effective and also should continue. In addition, thereare spectacular natural features in the NorthDistrict near the castle. A uniformed presence inthese areas, such as Ubehebe Crater, would provide additional resource protection, visitor safety,and the ability for visitors to have quality interpretive experiences.Modifications to the Furnace Creek Visitor Centerwill allow easy and safe evening access to activitiesand programs in the theater. It also will allow thebookstore to be closed off after hours. Proposedshade structures in the courtyard will allow thespace to be used for various activities.Tightening budgets have forced the reductionand/or elimination of personal services programsin other areas of the park. With ever increasing visitation, this plan highly recommends a restorationof personal services programs throughout thepark. See the Staffing section for a listing of specific needs.The complexity and diversity of the park's overallinterpretive program presents almost limitlessopportunities for both standard and innovativeactivities. Keeping within the parameters of theinterpretive themes and visitor experience goals,park staff should be given a high degree of creativefreedom to explore and experiment with new programs. This will help to maintain a creative edgeand attract new and returning audiences.Since personal services interpretive programs arerelatively easy to change, the activities should be

evaluated on a regular basis to discontinue thosethat are not effective, modify and improve thosethat require it, and validate those that are successful. 

Education ProgramOne of the GMP recommendations is "to improvethe educational and outreach program in surrounding communities and develop partnershipswith local schools and similar groups." In order to begin addressing any of the recommendations in this section, the vacant park educationspecialist position needs to be filled (see Staffingsection). Education programs differ from most traditional forms of interpretation in many ways, andspecial skills are required to effectively plan,design, implement, and assess multidisciplinarycurricula. Education coordination in the NPS has become adiscipline in its own right, and the need for a separate education plan has become essential. At somefuture date an education plan will be needed atDeath Valley National Park. Partnerships with area school districts and otherfederal and state conservation agencies will be critical in the establishment and growth of the park'seducation program. The participation of professional educators is essential in the development ofall programs to ensure that activities are curriculum based, appropriate to targeted grade levels,and meet the needs and education standards ofindividual schools, school districts, historical societies, museums, and states. All proposed programsand activities also should be field tested for effectiveness and evaluated by their ability to communicate primary interpretive themes.DEVA is part of a fairly new entity called theDesert Learning Center. This organization
al park units and is still in its

elopment. The potential of

rganization to develop an

 facility at Death Valley

rough this or similar pro

n (owned by Rio Tinto

ered for development as a

ation center, operated and

gency entities in partner

am grows, more materials

e through the park website.

e offered for free and

. Other items could be

ugh the cooperating associ

 makes elements of the

lable to worldwide audi

schooled children and

e able to travel to the park.

deavors, Death Valley's

ds to start small and grow

es often can generate sup

ditional staff and broader

multi-faceted, multi-audi

ve and become a vital part

erience. 

ns

e to accommodate the needs

who visit Death Valley

populations are identified as

g, learning, and mobility

ho do not speak English;

ung children.

 Architectural Barriers Act,

h Disabilities Act of 1990

physical access. Other regulations, laws, and standards include Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Director's Orders No. 42, and Accessibility for Visitors with Disabilities in National Park Service Programs, Facilities, and Services. All newly con- structed facilities, as a matter of course, will be designed for accessibility for physically disabled visitors and employees. Every effort will be made to provide full access to interpretive media and programs to ensure that people with physical and mental disabilities, as well as people who do not speak or understand English, have access to the same information nec- essary for a safe and meaningful visit to Death Valley National Park. All new interpretive media will follow the standards for accessibility as described in the NPS, June 1999 Programmatic Accessibility Guidelines for Interpretive Media. These guidelines (see Appendix C) will be consult- ed by park staff and media developers during the planning and design of new interpretive media. Research Needs The interpretive staff needs to work closely with the resource management staff to keep up to date on research activities and results. Scientists and resource management specialists should be encouraged to present regular briefings to the entire park staff, especially interpreters. Agency and contract researchers also should be encour- aged to produce executive summaries and pro- grams that translate research results for park staff and the public. Summaries with bibliographies could be put into PDF format and placed on the park's website. Death Valley National Park needs to learn more about its actual and potential audiences: Who vis- its? What are their motivations, expectations, and

27
satisfaction levels? Who doesn't visit and why?

How do the answers to these and other questionsvary with summer and winter visitors?While some of these questions are addressed inthe 1994 and 1996 Visitor Services Projects citedearlier, other methods may be employed. Forexample, front-end evaluations would querypotential users of programs, facilities, and mediabefore the products are developed. This type ofresearch is targeted so that practical use can bemade of the results. Formative evaluations wouldbe conducted during conceptual design, andwould test inexpensive mockups of interpretivemedia before fully investing in final products.Summative evaluations are valuable in helping to

determine the effectiveness of final media, facility,and programs-i.e. whether the intended themesare being communicated, if people actually makeuse the information, or if visitor behavior is affected.

old
RODUCTS AND

mation of the action items

 in this long-range interpre

 items is described in

rative sections of the plan.

help develop annual and

assign responsibilities, and

that the following list deals

s and products for media

irectly to information, ori

, and education. Although

ated facilities are proposed

elated to these structures

ed in greater detail during

n, and construction

irements to implement the

entified and addressed sep

rkwide

park phone tree.

 other park-produced liter

mation produced by exter

.

k web site (ongoing).

 information.

association Scope of Sales

ign plan in partnership with

ormation/fee collection

 entrances.

nt parkwide wayside

plan.

CD/Cassette tour media,

 version.

• Restore/expand personal services interpretive

programs (see Staffing section).

• Develop curriculum based education program in

partnership with others.

Furnace Creek Visitor Center

• Rehabilitate structure as recommended in 1998

VA Report.

• Develop outdoor entry exhibits.• Develop/rehab lobby exhibits (some with AV or

interactive elements).

• Develop new exhibit room media (some with AV

or interactive elements).

Scotty's Castle

• Rehab changeable exhibit case for Gas House.• Preserve, protect, and appropriately display historic vehicles in stable.• Replace modern bright colored chairs in Castle.• Explore interpretation/education options for

Cookhouse.

Beatty/Rhyolite Visitor Contact Station

• Explore sites for relocation of facility in partnership with others.• Develop new exhibit media when operation

moves to new location.

Staffing and TrainingTable 2 summarizes existing staff levels and additional staffing requirements needed to fully implement the recommendations of this long-rangeinterpretive plan.The following goals and objectives describe theDivision of Interpretation's commitment toemployee training:

29

SUMMARIES
• Offer training to all park staff in critical resource

issues and effective informal interpretation andcommunication skills, recognizing that all parkemployees, including concessionaires and cooperating association employees, have a role in providing effective visitor services and achieving theNPS mission.

• Offer developmental opportunities for park staff

to broaden their awareness of park issues.Provide opportunities for park employees tolearn about and/or improve their ability to articulate the relationships between their work, parkgoals and the NPS mission.

• Offer a minimum of two weeks of interpretive

training to seasonal interpreters, which includeinterpretive philosophy, interpretive skills, subject matter knowledge, operations procedures,and an overview of NPS programs, policies, andinitiatives.

• Fully implement the Interpretive Development

Program curriculum and encourage participationin the interpretive competencies certificationprogram. Evaluate programs against the nationalstandards.

• Encourage individual participation in professional development opportunities. Assess employee

development needs and provide training opportunities. Maintain a learner-driven and outcomebased atmosphere. 

Training in interpretation and communicationskills and related competencies, along with a soundknowledge of the park's resources needs to be ongoing. Interpreters, educators, and others who dealwith the visiting public need to be kept abreast ofcurrent and planned activities, past and presentresearch, and new technologies, not only as theyrelate to park resources, but also regarding visitor

POSITION EXISTING NEW TOTALChief of InterpretationAdmin ClerkN. District SupervisorS. District SupervisorEducation SpecialistEducation Park RangersMedia Design SpecialistPark Ranger – InterpreterPark GuideTOTAL PERMANENTSeasonal Park Ranger - InterpreterSeasonal Education TechSeasonal Park GuideSeasonal VolunteersTOTAL SEASONAL/VIPTOTAL

1116413 (13 FTE)101020 (9.8 FTE)33 (22.8 FTE)

111211512 (12 FTE)3227 (3.5 FTE)19 (15.5 FTE)

12111217925 (25 FTE)32121027 (13.3 FTE)52 (38.3 FTE)

Table 2
dia, education, etc. By

ational and operational

th partners, effective and

nd/or involve staff in new

d innovations can be

explore opportunities to

throughout the area who

tion/orientation, interpreta

vities. Training could be

led courses, workshops,

Other training could be

g programs offered by local

 Potential trainees could

 volunteers, interagency

ghout the region who deal

 

N PLAN

recommendations in this

plan will be phased over

d many will require inde

design efforts. Other action

ted immediately, within

ing levels.

ding, and other unforeseen

 priorities, especially when

contain a lot of specific

st shows a general phasing

escriptions/components of

 in the Recommendation

nt. The following list should

loping the annual work

f the Comprehensive

Short Term (1-3 years)

• Fill permanent Education Specialist position

w/term or seasonal assistance.

• Initiate planning for the park's Environmental

Education plan.

• Gain approval and fill permanent Division

Admin Clerk position.

• Initiate requests to fill new and vacant interpretive division positions.• Explore the feasibility and functionality of incorporating fee collection operations under the

Interpretation Division.

• Update park web page with new WASO guidelines.• Develop and link park specific children's web

ranger activities to park web page.

• Re-establish park sign committee and initiate

planning for park-wide sign plan.

• Restart planning for Furnace Creek Visitor

Center rehab and new exhibits.

• Work with Death Valley History Association and

David Vasser in the planning and production of anew park orientation film.

• Build open communication links with Timbisha

Shoshone Tribe in the development of interpretive materials for the public. 

• Develop partnerships with local area universities

for educational/outreach programs.

• Develop stronger network relationships with

Mojave Desert parks in the development andcompletion of common interpretive/educationprojects.

• Implement limited tours of Lower Vine Ranch,

as well as more diverse ranger programs on thegeology and natural history of the North District.

• Initiate planning of phase III of the park's wayside exhibit plan. 

Medium Term (4-7 years)

• Implement filling new or vacant Division posi31
tions or continue to seek higher priority to fill

new and vacant positions.

• Develop more in-depth interactive web pages in

multiple languages.

• Provide assistance in planning and or staffing

BLM or Beatty Development Committee visitorcenter - possible interagency facility.

• Provide exhibit development assistance for

Furnace Creek Visitor Center.

• Develop a more formal tour schedule for Lower

Vine Ranch in the North District.

• Develop and/or begin installation of new phase

III wayside exhibits.

• Provide assistance in the planning for the Scotty's

Castle Cook House - office space, exhibit space,etc.

• Provide assistance in overall DCP planning for

the Scotty's Castle Historic District.

• Implement elements of the EE plan and develop

and expand the EE program.

Long Term (8-15 years):

• Implement filling new or vacant Division positions or continue to seek higher priority to fill

new and vacant positions. All will be based onneeds of the park in 8-10 years.

• Develop a collaborative self-guiding tour plan

(may include a park-wide CD tour of popularscenic routes in the park).

• Produce and install new exhibits in Furnace

Creek Visitor Center.

• Re-design Scotty's Castle exhibits and book sales

area. This will depend on park's plans for use ofhistoric structures at Scotty's Castle.

nds

oint
33

 AND CONSULTANTS

al Park

ndent

Interpretation

ief of Interpretation

North District Supervisory Ranger, Interpretation

outh District Park Ranger, Interpretation

ict Park Ranger, Interpretation

anger, Ranger Activities

or, Resources Management

, Resources Management

r IT Specialist, Administration

er Landscape Architect

ltants

ha Shoshone Tribal Elder

urham, Timbisha Shoshone Tribal Administrator

sha Shoshone Tribal member

Furnace Creek Ranch & Inn, Xantera Corporation

cutive Director, Death Valley Natural History Association

ber, Death Valley National Park Advisory Commission

into Borax 

 Forest Service

p Elementary School District

alley Chamber of Commerce

Death Valley 49ers Park Liaison Committee

r

ovisual Producer

Wayside Exhibit Planner

bit Designer

ovisual Production Aide

r Interpretive Planner

lanner
APPENDICIESAppendix A: Web Page ConceptAppendix B: Furnace Creek Visitor Center Rehabilitation Project DrawingsAppendix C: Programmatic Accessibility Guidelines for Interpretive Media
35

eb Page Concept
nalysis, Furnace Creek Visitor Center
37

uilding Analysis, Furnace Creek Visitor Center
oncept, Furnace Creek Visitor Center
39

uilding Concept, Furnace Creek Visitor Center
Special Populations:

Programmatic AccessibilityGuidelines for Interpretive MediaNational Park ServiceHarpers Ferry CenterJune 1999Prepared byHarpers Ferry CenterAccessibility Task ForceContents:Statement of PurposeAudiovisual ProgramsExhibitsHistoric FurnishingsPublicationsWayside Exhibits

Appendix C: Programmatic Accessibility guidelines for InterpretiveMedia 
pose

de for promoting full access

 ensure that people with

abilities have access to the

ssary for safe and meaning

rks. Just as the needs and

annot be reduced to simple

ble to construct guidelines

hat can apply to every situa

k System.

 a high level of program

 be met in most situations.

as of concern and note gen

ns. Due to the diversity of

variety of interpretive situa

satility are important.

um contributes to the total

a have inherent strengths

is our intent to capitalize

provide alternatives where

ould also be understood

edium is just one compo

 experience. In some

th regard to learning dis

ces, that is one-on-one

most appropriate and ver

oach.

erpretive design is subjec

aesthetic considerations as

haracteristics and resources

program. Success or failure

examining all interpretive

e to the unique characteris

arks should be evaluated on

netheless, the goal is to

policy:

"...to provide the highest level of accessibility possible and feasible for persons with visual, hearing,mobility, and mental impairments, consistent withthe obligation to conserve park resources and preserve the quality of the park experience for everyone."

NPS Special Directive 83-3, Accessibility for

Disabled Persons

Audiovisual ProgramsAudiovisual programs include video programs, andaudio and interactive programs. As a matter of policy, all audiovisual programs produced by theHarpers Ferry Center will include some method ofcaptioning. The approach used will vary accordingto the conditions of the installation area and theformat used, and will be selected in consultationwith the parks and regions.The captioning method will be identified as earlyas possible in the planning process and will be presented in an integrated setting where possible. Tothe extent possible, visitors will be offered a choicein viewing captioned or uncaptioned versions, butin situations where a choice is not possible or feasible, a captioned version of all programs will bemade available. Park management will decide onthe most appropriate operational approach for theparticular site.Guidelines Affecting Visitors with MobilityImpairments1. The theater, auditorium, or viewing area shouldbe accessible and free of architectural barriers, oralternative accommodations will be provided.UFAS 4.1.2. Wheelchair locations will be provided accordingto ratios outlined in UFAS 4.1.2(18a).3. Viewing heights and angles will be favorable forthose in designated wheelchair locations.

41
4. In designing video or interactive components,

control mechanisms will be places in accessiblelocations, usually between 9" and 48" from theground and no more than 24" deep.Guidelines Affecting Visitors with VisualImpairmentsSimultaneous audio description will be consideredfor installations where the equipment can be properly installed and maintained.Guidelines Affecting Visitors with HearingImpairments1. All audiovisual programs will be produced withappropriate captions.2. Copies of scripts will be provided to the parks asa standard procedure.3. Audio amplification and listening systems will beprovided in accordance with UFAS 4.1.2(18b).Guidelines Affecting Visitors with LearningImpairments1. Unnecessarily complex and confusing conceptswill be avoided.2. Graphic elements will be chosen to communicate without reliance on the verbal component.3. Narration will be concise and free of unnecessary jargon and technical information.ExhibitsNumerous factors affect the design of exhibits,reflecting the unique circumstances of the specificspace and the nature of the materials to be interpreted. It is clear that thoughtful, sensitive designcan go a long way in producing exhibits that can beenjoyed by a broad range of people. Yet, due to thediversity of situations encountered, it is impossibleto articulate guidelines that can be applied universally.

In some situations, the exhibit designer has little orno control over the space. Often exhibits areplaced in areas ill suited for that purpose; they mayincorporate large or unyielding specimens, theymay incorporate sensitive artifacts which requirespecial environmental controls; and room décor orarchitectural features may dictate certain solutions.All in all, exhibit design is an art which defies simple description. However, one central concern is tocommunicate the message to the largest audiencepossible. Every reasonable effort will be made toeliminate ant factors limiting communicationthrough physical modification or by providingalternate means of communication.

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with MobilityImpairmentsNote: The Americans with Disabilities ActAccessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) is the standardfollowed by the National Park Service and is therefore the basis for the accessibility standards forexhibits, where applicable.1. Height/position of labels: Body copy on verticalexhibit walls should be placed between 36" and60" from the floor.2. Artifact Cases:

a. Maximum height of floor of artifact case display shall be no higher than 30" from the floor ofthe room. This includes vitrines that are recessedinto an exhibit wall.b. Artifact labels should be placed so as to be visible to a person within a 43" to 51" eye level. Thisincludes mounting labels within the case at anangle to maximize its visibility to all viewers.

3. Touchable Exhibits: Touchable exhibits positioned horizontally should be placed no higherthan 30" from the floor. Also, if the exhibit isapproachable only on one side, it should be nodeeper than 31".
lings around any horizontal

have a maximum height of

nformation desks and sales

 section made to accom

n a wheelchair and an

air working on the other

esk/counter shall have the

or to the top: 28" to 34".

arance space: 27" high, 30"

clearance underneath the

space required under

space 30" high, 36" wide,

mmended.

e of section: at least 36".

t be provided for any

cash register.

esk: Since both sides of the

ommodate a wheelchair,

pen all the way through to

ition, there should be no

aces underneath the desk.

nd the counter shall be free

gh exhibits shall be at least

eway reaches a dead-end,

hould be provided at the

nd.

from walls with their lead

" and 80" above the floor

re than 4" in passageways

ecting from wall with their

low 27" above the floor can

ts mounted on posts or

a maximum of 12" from 27"

to 80" above the floor. (ADAAG 4.4.1)e. Protruding objects shall not reduce the clearwidth of an accessible route to less than the minimum required amount. (ADAAG 4.4.1)f. Passageways or other circulation spaces shallhave a minimum clear head room of 80". Forexample, signage hanging from the ceiling mustallow at least 80" from the floor to the bottom ofthe sign. (ADAAG 4.4.2)

7. Floors:

a. Floors and ramps shall be stable, level, firm,and slip-resistant.b. Changes in levels between 1⁄4" and 1⁄2" shall bebeveled with a slope no greater than 1:2. Changesin level greater than 1⁄2" shall be accomplished bymeans of a ramp that complies with ADAAG 4.7or 4.8. (ADAAG 4.5.2)c. Carpet in exhibits shall comply with ADAAG4.5.3 for pile height, texture, pad thickness, andtrim.

8. Seating for Interactive Stations/Work Areas: The

minimum knee space underneath a work desk is

27" high, 30" wide, and 19" deep, with a clearfloor space of at least 30" by 30" in front. Thetop of the desk or work surface shall be between28" and 34" from the floor. (ADAAG 4.32, Fig.45)

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with VisualImpairments1. Tactile models and other touchable exhibit items

should be used whenever possible. Examples oftouchable exhibit elements include relief maps,scale models, raised images of simple graphics,reproduction objects, and replaceable objects(such as natural history or geologic specimens,cultural items, etc.).

2. Typography: Readability of exhibit labels by visitors with various degrees of visual impairment

shall be maximized by using the following guide43
lines:

a. Type Size: No type in the exhibit shall besmaller than 24 point.b. Typeface: The most readable typefaces shouldbe used whenever possible, particularly for bodycopy. They are: Times Roman, Palatine, Century,Helvetica, and Universe. (Note: since the development of these guidelines, typefaces NPS

Rawlinson and Frutiger should be added.)c. Styles/Spacing: Text set in both caps and lowercase is easier to read than all caps. Choose letterspacing and word spacing for maximum readability. Avoid too much italic type.d. Line length: Limit the line length for bodycopy to no more than 45 to 50 characters perline.e. Amount of Text: Each unit of body copyshould have a maximum of 45-60 words.f. Margins: Flush left, ragged right margins areeasiest to read.

3. Color:

a. Type/Background Contrast: Percentage of contrast between the type and the backgroundshould be a minimum of 70%.b. Red/Green: Do not use red on green or greenon red as the type/background color.c. Do not place body copy on top of graphicimages that impair readability.

4. Samples: During the design process, it is recommended that samples be made for review of all

size, typeface, and color combinations for labelsin an exhibit.

5. Exhibit Lighting:

a. All labels shall receive sufficient, even light forgood readability. Exhibit text in areas where lightlevels have been reduced for conservation purposes should have a minimum of 10 footcandlesof illumination.b. Harsh reflections and glare should be avoided.

c. The lighting system shall be flexible enough toallow adjustments on-site.d. Transitions between the floor and walls,columns or other structures should be madeclearly visible. Finishes for vertical surfacesshould contrast clearly with the floor finish.Floor circulation routes should have a minimumof 10 footcandles of illumination.

6. Signage: When permanent building signage is

required as a part of an exhibit project, theADAAG guidelines shall be consulted. Signswhich designate permanent rooms and spacesshall comply with ADAAG 4.30.1, 4.30.4, 4.30.5,and 4.30.6. Other signs which provide directionto or information about functional spaces of thebuilding shall comply with ADAAG 4.30.1, 4.30.2,4.30.3, and 4.30.5. Note: When the InternationalSymbol of Accessibility (wheelchair symbol) isused, the word "Handicapped" shall not be usedbeneath the symbol. Instead, use the word"Accessible".

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with HearingImpairments1. Information presented via audio formats will be

duplicated in a visual medium, such as in theexhibit label copy or by captioning. All videoprograms incorporated into the exhibit, whichcontain audio, shall be open captioned.

2. Amplification systems and volume controls

should be incorporated with audio equipmentused individually by the visitor, such as audiohandsets.

3. Information desks shall allow for

Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf (TDD)equipment.
g Visitors with Learning

ent the main interpretive

f levels of complexity, so

bilities and interests can

avoid unnecessarily com

pics, technical terms, and

s. Pronunciation aids

here appropriate.

all be used to communicate

a multi-sensory experience.

ize the number of senses

hould be encouraged.

se color and other creative

te comprehension of maps

ional impairments.

gs

d rooms offer the public a

erience by placing visitors

Surrounded by historic arti

he spaces "come alive" and

he historic events or per

ed by the park. 

atic in many NPS furnished

y nature of historic archi

erected with a functional

y times is at odds with our

sibility.

onvey the experience of

paces will vary from site to

r, will remain the same, to

n interpretive experience as

re of the structure.

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with MobilityImpairments1. The exhibit space should be free of architectural

barriers, or a method of alternate accommodation should be provided, such as slide programs,video tours, visual aids, dioramas, etc.

2. All pathways, aisles, and clearances shall (when

possible) meet standards set forth in UFAS 4.3 toprovide adequate clearance for wheelchairroutes.

3. Ramps shall be as gradual as possible and not

exceed a 1" rise in a 12" run, and conform toUFAS 4.8.

4. Railings and room barriers will be constructed

in such a way as to provide unobstructed viewingby persons in wheelchairs.

5. In the planning and design process, furnishing

inaccessible areas, such as upper floors of historic buildings, will be discouraged, unless essential for interpretation.

6. Lighting will be designed to reduce glare or

reflections when viewed from a wheelchair.

7. Alternative methods of interpretation, such as

audiovisual programs, audio description, photoalbums, and personal services will be used inareas which present difficulty for visitors withphysical impairments.

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with VisualImpairments1. Exhibit typefaces will be selected for readability

and legibility, and conform to good industrypractice.

2. Audio description will be used to describe furnished rooms, where appropriate.3. Windows will be treated with film to provide

balanced light levels and minimize glare.

4. Where appropriate, visitor-controlled rheostattype lighting will be provided to augment general

room lighting.

45
5. Where appropriate and when proper clearance

has been approved, surplus artifacts or reproductions will be utilized as "hands-on" tactileinterpretive devices.

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with HearingImpairments1.Information about room interiors will be presented in a visual medium such as exhibit copy, text,

pamphlets, etc.

2. Captions will be provided for all AV programs

relating to historic furnishings.

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with LearningImpairments1. Where appropriate, hands-on participatory elements geared to the level of visitor capabilities

will be used.

2. Living history activities and demonstrations

which utilize the physical space as a method ofproviding multi-sensory experiences will beencouraged.

PublicationsA variety of publications are offered to visitors,ranging from park brochures which provide anoverview and orientation to a park, to more comprehensive handbooks. Each park brochure shouldgive a brief description of services available to visitors with disabilities, list significant barriers, andnote the existence of TDD phone numbers, ifavailable.In addition, informal site bulletins are often produced to provide more specialized informationabout a specific site or topic. It is recommendedthat each park produce an easily updatable"Accessibility Site Bulletin" which could includedetailed information about the specific programs,services, and opportunities available for visitors

with disabilities and to describe barriers which arepresent in a park. A template for this site bulletinwill be on the Harpers Ferry Center website forparks to create with ease, a consistent lookthroughout the park service. These bulletinsshould be in large type. 16 points minimum andfollow the large-print criteria below.

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with MobilityImpairments1. Park brochures, site bulletins, and sales literature

will be distributed from accessible locations andheights.

2. Park brochures and Accessibility Site Bulletins

should endeavor to carry information on theaccessibility of buildings, trails, and programs byvisitors with disabilities.

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with VisualImpairments1. Publications for the general public:

a. Text

i.. Size: the largest type size appropriate for the format. (preferred main body of text should be 10 point)ii. Leading should be at least 20% greater than the font size used.iii. Proportional letterspacing.iv. Main body of text set in caps and lower case.v. Margins are flush left and ragged right.vi. Little or no hyphenation is used at ends of lines.vii. Ink coverage is dense.viii. Underlining does not connect with the letters being underlined.ix. Contrast of typeface and illustrations to background is high (70% contrast is recommended).x. Photographs have a wide range of gray
gs or floor plans are clear 

imited detail and minimum 

 extended or compressed 

ed for main text.

pe should be a minimum of

m or bold sans-serif type.

red is a matte finish. Dull

acceptable.

 weight to avoid "shoe 

ges printed on both sides.

ublications:

m 16 point type.

on 20 point.

 letterspacing.

text set in caps and lower 

ush left and ragged right.

yphenation is used at ends 

e is dense.

ning does not connect with 

derlined.

ypeface and illustrations to 

igh (70% contrast is recom

have a wide range of gray

gs or floor plans are clear 

imited detail and minimum 

 extended or compressed 

ed for main text.

r simple-serif typefaces.

or italic typefaces.

f 50 characters (average) 

xvi. No type is printed over other designs.xvii. Document has a flexible binding, preferably one that allows the publication to lie flat.xviii. Gutter margins are a minimum of22mm; outside margin smaller, but not less than 13mm.

b. Paper:

i. Surface is off-white or natural with matte finish.ii. Has sufficient weight to avoid "showthrough" on pages printed on both sides.

3. Maps

a. The less cluttered the map, the more visitorscan use it.b. The ultimate is a map that has large print andis tactile.c. Raised line/tactile maps can be developedusing digital files and a thermoform machine.Lines are distinguished by lineweight, color, andheight. Areas are distinguished by color, height,and texture.d. Digital maps are located on an accessible website.e. Same paper guidelines as above.f. Contrast of typeface background is high (70%contrast is recommended).g. Proportional letterspacing.h. Labels set in caps and lower case.i. Map notes are flush left and ragged right.j. Little or no hyphenation is used at ends oflines.k. No extreme extended or compressed typefaces are used for main text.l. Sans-serif or simple-serif typeface.

4. The text contained in the park brochure should

also be available on audiocassette, CD and accessible website. Handbooks, accessibility guides,and other publications should be similarlyrecorded where possible.

47
5. The official park brochure is available in a word

processing format. This could be translated intoBraille as needed.

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with HearingImpairmentsPark site bulletins will note the availability of suchspecial services as sign language interpretation andcaptioned programs.Guidelines Affecting Visitors with LearningImpairments1. The park site bulletin should list ant special services available to these visitors.2. Publications:

a. Use language that appropriately describes persons with disabilities.b. Topics will be specific and of general interest.Unnecessary complexity will be avoided.c. Whenever possible, easy to understand graphics will be used to convey ideas, rather then textalone.d. Unfamiliar expressions, technical terms, andjargon will be avoided. Pronunciation aids anddefinitions will be provided where needed.e. Text will be concise and free of long paragraphs and wordy language.

Wayside ExhibitsWayside exhibits, which include outdoor interpretive exhibits and signs, orientation shelter exhibits,and bulletin boards, offer special advantages to visitors with disabilities. The liberal use of photographs, artwork, diagrams, and maps, combinedwith highly readable type, make wayside exhibitsan excellent medium for visitors with hearing andlearning impairments. For visitors with sightimpairments, waysides offer large type and highlegibility.

Although a limited number of NPS waysideexhibits will always be inaccessible to visitors withmobility impairments, the great majority are placedat accessible pullouts, viewpoints, parking areas,and trailheads.The NPS accessibility guidelines for waysideexhibits help insure a standard of quality that willbe appreciated by all visitors. Nearly everyonebenefits from high quality graphics, readable type,comfortable base designs, accessible locations,hard-surfaced exhibit pads, and well-landscapedexhibit sites.While waysides are valuable on-site "interpreters,"it should be remembered that the park resourcesthemselves are the primary things visitors come toexperience. Good waysides focus attention on thefeatures they interpret, and not on themselves. Awayside exhibit is only one of many interpretivetools which visitors can use to enhance theirappreciation of a park.

Guidelines Affecting Visitors with MobilityImpairments1. Wayside exhibits will be installed at accessible

locations whenever possible.

2. Wayside exhibits will be installed at heights and

angles favorable for viewing by most visitors,including those in wheelchairs. For standardNPS low-profile units, the recommended heightis 30" from the bottom of the exhibit panel to thefinished grade; for vertical exhibits the height of6-28". 

3. Trailhead exhibits will include information on

trail conditions which affect accessibility.

4. Wayside exhibit sites will have level, hard surfaced exhibit pads.5. Exhibit sites will offer clear, unrestricted views

of park features described in the exhibits.
g Visitors with Visual

s legible and readable as

elected to reduce eyestrain

vide excellent readability

s. White should not be used

r.

ibits may incorporate audio

ments such as models, tex

f maps.

 interpreted by wayside

uld offer non-visual inter

e same subject matter.

dio tours, radio messages,

ues should be provided to

d visitors locate exhibits.

g Visitors with Hearing

communicate visually, and

o interpret park resources.

n included in audio station

icated in written form,

xhibit text or with printed

g Visitors with Learning

hibits will be specific and of

ecessary complexity will be

asy to understand graphics

y ideas, rather than text

ns, technical terms, and jar

Pronunciation aids and defi

ed where needed.

nd free of long paragraphs

49