National Park Servic

Navajo National Monument U.S. Department of Arizona

General Management Plan Summary
General Management Plan Summary 

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•• • • • • • •This General Management Plan Summary provides the highlights of the Navajo National Monument Final General Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement. The plan is intended to provide a foundation to help park managers guide programs and set priorities for resource stewardship, visitor understanding, partnerships, facilities, and operations. The plan will guide management of the monument for the next 15–20 years. The central questions of the plan are how resources will be protected for future generations, how visitor understanding will be improved, how associated American Indian tribes will be more fully recognized and involved with the monument, and what facilities, staff, and funding will be needed to fulfill proposed actions. The plan was developed with public involvement and consultation with associated American Indian tribes and government agencies. The preferred alternative emphasizes partnerships. The National Park Service will carefully manage the existing land base and in addition will share common goals with American Indian tribes and others to protect resources and promote visitor understanding of the entire region. The NPS will look beyond the boundary for accomplishing joint purposes through cooperation and partnerships. Opportunities for more innovative and diverse programs, education and outreach, cross 

training, and broader resource managemenhanced by a collaborative regional effoThe complete plan describes and analyzetwo alternatives for managing and using NMonument. Under Alternative A: (No APark Service would continue existing man

resulting in current resource conditions a

and the logical progression of known trenrequired as a baseline against which the ocompared. Under Alternative B: Focus oNational Park Service would focus managland base to achieve the purposes of the mresource protection and visitor understanaccomplished on the three federal units aand Inscription House. The complete Navajo National Monumen

Management Plan/Environmental Impact 

discusses the potential consequences of eon cultural and natural resources, visitor understanding, remoteness, socio- econooperations. It is important that the compreviewed prior to implementing actions in appropriate further consultation and compolicies.
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INTRODUCTION ............................................................1

Purpose and Need for a General Management Plan.......... 1Vision............................................................................... 2Brief Description and Location.........................................3The Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni, and Their Relationship to Navajo National Monument ................... 4How The Monument Was Established..............................5Purpose .............................................................................7Significance.......................................................................7Primary Interpretive Themes ............................................7Resources......................................................................... 8Significant Resource Areas............................................... 9Mission Goals ................................................................. 16Main Issues of the GMP .................................................. 17

THE PLAN .....................................................................19

Overall Philosophy: Emphasize Partnerships.................. 19Management Prescriptions ............................................. 19Resources Stewardship—Natural and Cultural Resources, Ethnographic Resources ...............................29

Resource Stewardship—Museum ColVisitor Understanding—InterpretatioVisitor Understanding—Front CountVisitor Understanding—Backcountry Visitor Understanding—Name Of ThPromote Visitor Understanding—OpPeople with Disabilities .....................Promote Visitor Understanding OppoFor Youth ..........................................Partnerships ......................................Facilities and Operations—Facilities .Facilities and Operations—Boundary Facilities and Operations—Staff ........

APPENDIX A: LEGISLATION ...........APPENDIX B: MEMORANDUM OF AOF MAY 8, 1962.................................APPENDIX C: TSEGI CANYON NAVATRIBAL PARK...................................

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PURPOSE AND NEED FOR A GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN The purpose of the General Management Plan (GMP) is to map out a clear direction for the management of Navajo National Monument for the next 15 to 20 years. The GMP will provide comprehensive and integrated guidance for the preservation of resources, provision of visitor enjoyment, and the organizational mechanism to accomplish the plan. The plan will not provide specific and detailed answers to every issue or question facing Navajo National Monument, but the approved plan will provide a comprehensive framework for proactive decision making. General management plans are required for every unit of the National Park Service and must address resource protection measures, general development locations, timing, costs, carrying capacity analyses, and boundary modifications. One of the most important aspects of planning is public involvement. Creation of the GMP is a process that involves interaction with other government agencies, American Indian tribes, neighbors, visitors, and the general public. Navajo National Monument has never had a general management plan. Visitation remained below 1,000 per year until 1950. A master plan, developed in 1951, guided development of the visitor center, parking, picnic area, campground, trails, and overlooks that were constructed in the early 1960s. Completion of these facilities, coupled with the paving of the Kayenta–Tuba City road, led to visitation climbing from around 1,000 per year to approximately 80,000 per year. Charged with protecting resources and 

enhancing visitor understanding in the 2National Park Service needs a comprehethat guides management decisions and lhow and why the monument is managed A Draft General Management Plan / Env

Statement (GMP/EIS) was developed th

scoping, newsletters, consultation with Atribes and government agencies, and puFinal GMP / EIS reflects changes that weto the comments on the draft documentdays after this final environmental impapublished, the National Park Service wilthe final plan, and publish a record of deRegister. The plan will then be impleme

One of the most important aspects 

is public involvement. The GMP is a that involves interaction with othegovernment agencies, American Inneighbors, visitors, and the general 
INTRODUCTION 

2VISION The images are undeniably compelling: red sandstone canyons; amazingly large cliff dwellings; astonishingly preserved building details and remnants that tell about this ancient 13th- century Puebloan society; the lush forest of 

Betatakin Canyon; waterfalls tumbling over sandstone near Keet Seel; remoteness, wide blue skies, quiet; the land of the ancestral home of the Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni. In contrast to the busy sameness of modern urban life, the ancient villages of Navajo National Monument are tied to and surrounded by native cultures, including those that 

descended from the village builders. Navajo National Monument has been a remote place since its establishment in 1909. The few early hardy visitors braved the vast distances on horseback from the railheads at Flagstaff, Arizona, or Dolores, Colorado. Only recently did paved roads make the area more accessible, although access is still difficult. Betatakin is a five- hour hike, Keet Seel is an arduous overnight backcountry trip, and Inscription House is so fragile and isolated it remains closed. The challenge and commitment required to go to Betatakin and Keet Seel rewards visitors with an unparalleled experience. Remoteness has protected what is special about the monument—intact cliff dwellings linked to natural settings, a lack of modern intrusions that fosters a deep understanding of the past, a landscape connecting past and present cultures, and a region central to the spiritual beliefs of Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni Tribes. The Navajo National Monument of the future should look a lot like the Navajo National Monument of today. In the spectrum of units of the national park system, this monument should guard its unique remoteness and the special understanding that comes from the wholeness of the 

landscape. The ancient village sites and should be protected to evoke a strong serespect of cultural beliefs. The monumequiet, insightful experience. Improvemefacilities should be made to provide greaand appreciation for those who cannot oto the remote sites, but such improvemeinterfere with the mission of the monum

urbanization and tourism increase, NavMonument should stand out as a windoand present cultures. The nation will incplaces in the future. 
BRIEF DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION Navajo National Monument was established to preserve three specific outstanding 13th- century cliff dwellings in 

Northern Arizona. Betatakin, Keet Seel, and Inscription House are some of the largest, most intact pre- contact structures in the Southwestern United States. These three sites represent one part of a long human habitation of the area and hold distinct meanings to different people, particularly the Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni. The National Park Service manages these sites to protect their natural and cultural heritage for present and future generations. The cliff dwellings lie on three very small tracts (360 acres total) of federal land, separated by considerable distance and surrounded by Navajo Nation land in northeastern Arizona. The town of Kayenta is about 30 miles east of the monument on U.S. Highway 160, a main route between the Four Corners areas and the Grand Canyon. The Betatakin unit, 160 acres, is adjacent to the headquarters area, which resides on about 240 acres of land under agreement 

with the Navajo Nation. About 9 miles north of U.S. Highway 160, this is the primary visitor area with a visitor center, trails, overlooks, a campground, a picnic area, and administrative facilities. Betatakin is visible from the overlook on the rim, and visitors can gain access from a 5- mile roundtrip guided hike into the canyon. Keet Seel unit, 160 acres, is 8 miles northeast of headquarters, and visitors must generally 

backpack overnight to visit it. Inscriptiomore than 30 miles by road from headquclosed to visitors since 1968. Access requNavajo Nation land. Current visitation to Navajo National M66,000 per year, and more than 95 perce

the rim at the headquarters area. Remotprotecting the resources of these small sNavajo Nation. 
INTRODUCTION 

4THE HOPI, NAVAJO, SAN JUAN PAIUTE, AND ZUNI, AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO NAVAJO NATIONAL MONUMENT Four American Indian tribes have been identified through consultation as having cultural associations with the area of Navajo National Monument. Each has a distinct set of beliefs and a relationship with the sites, geography, and landscapes of the monument. Hopi Ancestors of the Hopi have lived in the Southwest for millennia. Hopi origin stories tell of their ancestors, the Hisatsinom, coming into the present world through the Sipapu, the center of the cosmos, from which their ancestors emerged from the underworld and spread throughout the Southwest. From the 10th to 13th centuries, as trade brought seeds of corn and other agricultural crops into the region from present- day Mexico, Hisatsinom lifeways changed from 

nomadic hunting and gathering to farming the red- rock mesas and canyon bottomlands. Settling into farming, the Hisatsinom replaced their temporary brush shelters with enduring multistoried, stone and masonry houses clustered in villages. The Hisatsinom, people of long ago, inhabited the lands of present- day Navajo National Monument from about A.D.

950 to A.D. 1300. They migrated from Kawestima (North 

Village) to Tuuwanasavi, the Center of the Universe, in the fulfillment of a covenant with Maasaw, the Earth Guardian. These ancestral lands remain very important to the Hopi. Keet Seel (also Kawestima) is a Fire Clan village. Betatakin (Talastima) is a Flute and Deer Clan village. Inscription 

House (Tsu’ovi) is a Rattlesnake, Sand, avillage. The Hopi value the archeological sites, spetroglyphs, and pictographs of Navajo Monument, because they are a vital spirlink between the past, the present, and ta rich interpretive scheme for assigning appearing on rock, the Hopi have identiliving clans on a site in Betatakin Canyoother sites are still considered sacred ansense. 

Navajo The boundaries of the traditional Navajsymbolized by four sacred mountains: BNaajinii) near Alamosa, Colorado; Mounear Grants, New Mexico; the San Fran(Dook’o’oosliid) near Flagstaff, ArizonaMountains (Dibe Ntasaa) near Durangoorigin stories tell of their ancestors, the emerging from a subterranean world intwithin the embrace of the four sacred mArcheological and linguistic evidence suAthabaskan- speaking Diné migrated sonorthwestern part of the continent. Arcconsensus as to when the Diné arrived in Southwest, but estimate sometime betwcenturies. The Diné eventually diverged gathering lifeways and adopted an agricLater, the Spanish introduced domesticDiné, and sheepherding became central In 1868 Navajo tribal leaders signed a treStates, granting the tribe the reservation
more than 16 million acres and covering parts of three states—northeastern Arizona, northwestern New Mexico, and southeastern Utah. The reservation encompasses Navajo National Monument, which was created by presidential proclamation in 1909. In 1960, the Navajo Tribal Council Advisory Committee created Tsegi Canyon Tribal Park to protect all lands within the Tsegi Canyon system (see Appendix C). The Navajo Parks and Recreation Department has the delegated authority and responsibility to manage and operate tribal parks but due to limited funds and staff, the department is not actively managing Tsegi Canyon Tribal Park. As related through their oral history, the Navajo have a long tradition of using the monument and adjacent lands for both sacred and personal purposes, such as the harvesting of nuts 

and berries. 

San Juan Paiute Today, the San Juan Paiute live in small towns in and around the vast Navajo Nation. Several centuries ago the San Juan Paiute actually inhabited areas that are now managed by Navajo National Monument. In the mid- 1850s Captain Walker and his troop traveled through much of what we now call the Navajo Nation. During his travels he came across a people, the San Juan Paiute, who settled in sparse camps along drainages in the Tsegi Canyon system. One group that he encountered lived in what is now called Nitsin Canyon. Most likely these people had settled some time after the inhabitants of Inscription House had moved to other villages. This small band of San Juan Paiute eventually gave way to the ever- growing numbers and expansion of the Navajo, moving closer to Navajo Mountain and other areas where they continued their strategy of hunting and gathering and limited agriculture to gain food and materials for 

survival. The San Juan Paiute still feel a sNitsin Canyon and other areas in the reg

Zuni The Zuni have also lived in the Southwecenturies. Today, their home is near Gahowever, at one time their settlements cFour Corners region of Colorado, New Arizona. The Zuni consider the area in wNational Monument is located, Tsegi Caessential part of their traditions. The Tsknown in their traditions as the “northewhich several of their clans originated amigrated to their present location at ZunMexico. The Zuni also see this region as was through Tsegi Canyon that they travreach what is now known as the Grand Ctraveled through this region to visit areapreviously inhabited and to obtain salt fnear the Grand Canyon. Today, Zuni elNavajo National Monument to visit Betasite figures prominently in their past. NaMonument still plays an important role traditions, and lives. HOW THE MONUMENT WAESTABLISHED The canyons branching deep into the Nthe Colorado Plateau have been inhabityears. Among the evidence of past peopcliff dwellings, ceramics, tools, and othe19th century, these highly visible remnancultural heritage were in danger of being 
INTRODUCTION 

6destroyed. In response to increasing public awareness of conservation and concern to preserve prehistory, the “Antiquities Act” became law in 1906. It established penalties for looting archeological sites on federal lands, established a permit system for gathering objects on federal lands, and gave presidential authority to designate national monuments. In 1909, President William H. Taft set aside Navajo National Monument (Proclamation No. 873, 36 Stat. 2491) as an area situated on the Navajo Indian Reservation in Arizona encompassing about 160 square miles: 

“Whereas, a number of prehistoric cliff dwelling and pueblo ruins, situated within the Navajo Indian Reservation, Arizona, and which are new to science and wholly unexplored, and because of their isolation and size are of the very greatest ethnological, scientific, and educational interest, and it appears the public interest would be promoted by reserving these extraordinary ruins of an unknown people, with as much land as may be necessary for the proper protection thereof...” 

Just a few years later, President Taft reduced the size of Navajo National Monument (Proclamation No. 1186, 37 Stat. 1733, 1912) from 160 square miles to three separate units surrounded by Navajo Nation lands: • Betatakin—160 acres • Keet Seel—160 acres • Inscription House—40 acres 

As part of the system of National Parks, Navajo National Monument is managed to conserve scenery, natural and 

historic objects, and wildlife unimpaired 

of present and future generations. 

Note: The plateau and canyons have b

continue to be the home of many peopl“unknown” as worded in the 1909 proc

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The resourcefulness and ingenu

century cliff dwelling builders is 

the astonishingly preserved bu

objects of what is now Navajo 

Monument. Remoteness has pr

wholeness of the landscape, the 

of diverse cultures, and material 

links between the environment 

societies. The monument of t

should protect remoteness and 

window into past and present 
PURPOSE • To protect outstanding cliff dwellings at Betatakin/Talastima, 

Keet Seel/Kawestima, and Inscription House/Tsu’ ovi and their surrounding environments for future generations. 

• To allow, without compromising protection, opportunities to 

contribute to scientific and ethnographic knowledge. 

• To promote visitor understanding of the monument’s diverse 

resources, including the cliff dwellings, their surrounding environments, and their connections to cultures past and present 

in the region. 

The purpose tells why the monument was set 

aside as a unit of the national park system. It is based on the presidential proclamation and the NPS Organic Act. The significance of the monument tells what makes the area unique—why it is important enough to our cultural and/or natural heritage to warrant national park designation, and how it differs from other parts of the country. 

SIGNIFICANCE • The three cliff dwellings and associated cultural resources 

provide a comprehensive window into 13th- century life because of their large size and intact condition. 

• Exemplary material integrity of Navajo National Monument’s 

structures, architectural details, and artifacts provide specific information about social structure of these 13th- century inhabitants and their interaction with other cultures of the time. 

• Navajo National Monument’s remoteness 

intrusions provide visitors an unparalleleconnect with life in this 13th- century com

• The cultural and natural resources of Nav

Monument are central to the distinct spirNavajo, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni Tribes

• Betatakin/Talastima Canyon shelters an u

aspen/fir forest, providing a confluence oresources that provide further opportunipast. 

• American Indian descendents of those wh

the dwellings are alive and still connected traditionally to the total environment.

Interpretive themes are the key stor

concepts that every visitor to NavajMonument should understand. 

PRIMARY INTERPRETIVE T• The cliff dwellings at Navajo National Mo

adaptation of a people to their constantly the molding and shaping of a culture by npeople can both positively and negatively surroundings’ ability to support them. 

• The well- preserved cliff dwellings and as

setting largely free of modern intrusions, information about the habits, social interdynamics of the 13th- century inhabitantssophisticated civic life that bears close rePueblo lifeways; and offer opportunities tcultural continuity and change. 
INTRODUCTION 

8• Natural systems and processes operate in Navajo National 

Monument to create an environment of great scenic beauty and diverse flora and fauna, an environment that has also supported 

many centuries of human occupation by diverse cultures extending to the present day, providing opportunities to explore both the material and spiritual links between the environment and human societies. 

• Navajo National Monument’s cliff dwellings, associated artifacts, 

and surrounding natural resources all connect to the deeply held and distinct beliefs of the Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni peoples, demonstrating how each society’s natural and cultural resources serve as physical manifestations of ancient stories and ceremonies about origins and heritage. 

RESOURCES The mission of the National Park Service is to manage national parks, monuments, and other units of the system: 

• to conform to the fundamental purpose o

monuments, or other units; 

• to conserve the scenery and the natural a

the wildlife therein; and 

• to provide for the enjoyment of the same 

and by such means as will leave them unimenjoyment of future generations. 

Protecting resources is the primary missPark Service. The enjoyment of future gbe guaranteed if the superb quality of paresources and values are left unimpairedto ensure that park resources and values particularly those that are directly linkesignificance of the park. At Navajo Natiopurpose and significance were identified to this plan, and are used to identify “SigAreas.” 

Keet Seel/Kawestima 
SIGNIFICANT RESOURCE AREAS A significant resource area is a unit of land containing a composition of resources that are interrelated and make up a component of the purpose and significance of Navajo National Monument. It is a tool to help organize the values of the components of the monument into geographic areas, so that management prescriptions can be developed to protect significant resources and meet monument goals. Values include cultural resources, geology, vegetation, wildlife, ethnographic resources, water resources (hydrology, wetlands, and floodplains), visitor experience and understanding, visitor safety, scenic quality, and the natural soundscape. 

Inscription House/Tsu’Ovi Betatakin/Talastima 
INTRODUCTION 

10

Betatakin/Talastima: Significant Resource Areas 

Plateau Canyon Walls Ca

General Description 

Undulating land on top of the mesas, piñon-juniper, elevation 7,300 feet 

Sandstone walls, mostly vertical, firs and other plant life growing on canyon wall overhangs 

The relic aspBetatakin Cacanyon can btrails 

Cultural Resources Archeological sites, historic sites Cliff dwellings, petroglyph, hand-hold trails, need to complete archeological surveys Archeologica

Natural Resources 

Sandstone, crypto-biotic soils, piñonjuniper, yucca, roundleaf buffalo berry, cliff rose, Gambel oak, mountain mahogany, deer, coyote, bear, birds, mountain lion, Threatened and endangered species (T&E) habitat (bats, raptors, lizards, owls); precipitation collects in low points, which are biologically diverse 

Navajo sandstone walls, alcoves, associated with seeps-riparian hanging gardens; T&E; seeps and springs are associated with riparian vegetation, hanging garden 

Relatively staof sandstone less, moving aspen-fir foreinvasive tameapproaching T&E (raptorsblack-capped high integrity intermittent sriparian vege

Ethnographic Resources Many trees, plants, and herbs Seep/spring areas, petroglyph, cliff dwellings; shrines Plants, spring

many people

Scenic Resources Expansive vistas, sandstone formations, piñon-juniper Vertical grandeur, vibrant colors, alcoves Enclosed can

landscape, sh

Natural Soundscape 

Intrusions from vehicle and aircraft noise, people; wind carries sound; sandstone transmits vibrations of vehicles (road and cattle guard); future road development; and Peabody explosions might transmit through sandstone as well 

Alcoves reflect every small noise (natural and human-caused); cliff dwellings sensitive to vibration 

Alcoves refleand human-csensitive to v

Lightscapes 

Intrusions from monument headquarters, employee residence, local residents; community growth from road development 

Intrusions from monument headquarters, employee residence, local residents; community growth from road development 

Intrusions froemployee rescommunity gr

Opportunities for Visitor 

Experience and 

Understanding 

Expansive, distant views of canyon country provide context of region and environment; direct view of Betatakin/Talastima links people to cliff dwellings; plants, wildlife, and cultural resources provide direct learning opportunities; visitor center provides off-resource learning 

Sensitive resources, vertical walls, rockfall hazard keeps visitors from direct experience; proximate views of cliff dwellings, petroglyph connects people directly to past 

Remote, enclvegetation cowith cliff dweldwellings, peunderstandin

Visitor Safety 

Falling hazard at rim of canyon Significant rockfall hazard on some northfacing walls and within alcoves; heat 

exhaustion when hiking out of canyon 

Potential forefrom above c

INTRODUCTION 

12

Keet Seel/Kawestima: Significant Resource Areas 

 Plateau Canyon Walls/Talus Slopes Canyo

General Description 

Undulating land on top of the mesas, piñon-juniper, elevation 6,600–7,500 feet, heavily grazed 

Sandstone walls, stepped mesas and vertical, piñon-juniper-oak, other plant life growing on canyon wall overhangs and alcoves 

Heavily grazearroyo cuts, s

Cultural Resources Archeological sites, historic sites 

Cliff dwellings, petroglyph, hand-hold trails, alcoves contain prehistoric ruins mostly and a petroglyph 

Archeologicasites 

Natural Resources 

Sandstone, crypto-biotic soils, piñonjuniper, yucca, roundleaf buffalo berry, cliff rose, Gambel oak, mountain mahogany, deer, coyote, bear, birds, mountain lion, Threatened and endangered species (T&E) habitat (bats, raptors, lizards); precipitation collects in low points, which are biologically diverse 

Navajo sandstone walls, alcoves; possible T&E; yucca, piñon-juniper, Gambel oak; invasive tamarisk and plum; springs 

Very unstable lowering wate(arroyo cuttinT&E (raptorsSeel creek, m

Ethnographic Resources Piñon-juniper area not as heavily grazed as Inscription House area Petroglyph, cliff dwellings, springs Historic and a

to many peop

Scenic Resources Expansive vistas, sandstone formations, piñon-juniper, sand dunes, Skeleton Mesa Vertical grandeur, vibrant colors, alcoves Many side ca

Creek, waterf

Natural Soundscape 

Quiet most of the time, noise from small allterrain vehicles and air traffic, potential for road development on Skeleton Mesa 

Small quiet alcoves, canyon walls create echoes, potential for intrusions from road development on Skeleton Mesa 

Birds, rustling Creek, waterffrom road dev

Lightscapes Intrusions from local residents; Skeleton Mesa Intrusions from local residents; Skeleton Mesa Intrusions fro

Mesa 

Opportunities for Visitor 

Experience and 

Understanding 

Remote mesa environment; plants and wildlife; Navajo culture 

Sensitive resources, vertical walls, rockfall hazard keeps visitors from direct experience; proximate views of cliff dwellings, petroglyph connect people directly to past 

Remote canywildlife, Navadwellings, pe

Visitor Safety Falling hazard at rim of canyon not as significant as it is at Betatakin Some rockfall hazard along trail and in alcoves; heat exhaustion when hiking out of canyon Potential rock

serious flash moderate to d

INTRODUCTION 

14

Inscription House/Tsu’ Ovi: Significant Resource Areas 

 Plateau Canyon Walls/Talus Slopes Canyo

General Description 

Undulating land on top of the mesas, piñon-juniper, elevation 4,500-6,000 feet, heavily grazed 

Sandstone walls, mostly vertical, piñonjuniper-oak; other plant life growing on canyon wall overhangs and alcoves 

Heavily grazearroyo cuts, s

Cultural Resources Archeological sites, historic sites 

Cliff dwellings, petroglyph, hand-hold trails, every alcove has a historic and/or prehistoric component 

Archeologicasites 

Natural Resources 

Sandstone, crypto-biotic soils, piñonjuniper, yucca, roundleaf buffalo berry, cliff rose, Gambel oak, mountain mahogany, deer, coyote, bear, birds, mountain lion, Threatened and endangered species (T&E) habitat (bats, raptors, lizards); precipitation collects in low points, which are biologically diverse 

Cliff dwellings, petroglyph, hand-hold trails, every alcove has a historic and/or prehistoric component 

Very unstable lowering wate(arroyo cuttinrattlesnakes obats, willow flmesa top wat

Ethnographic Resources Piñon-juniper, very little grass, overgrazing Petroglyph, cliff dwellings Historic and a

to many peop

Scenic Resources Expansive vistas, sandstone formations, piñon-juniper, sand dunes Vertical grandeur, vibrant colors, alcoves, arches Many side ca

Natural Soundscape Quiet most of the time, noise from small vehicles and air traffic Small quiet alcoves, canyon walls create echoes Birds, rustling 

Lightscapes Minimal intrusion from local residents, Inscription House Trading Post Minimal intrusion from local residents, Inscription House Trading Post Minimal intrus

Inscription Ho

Opportunities for Visitor 

Experience and 

Understanding 

Remote mesa environment; plants and wildlife; Navajo culture 

Sensitive resources, vertical walls, rockfall hazard keeps visitors from direct experience; proximate views of cliff dwellings, petroglyph connects people directly to past 

Remote canywildlife; Navadwellings, pe

Visitor Safety Falling hazard at rim of canyon not as significant as at Betatakin Some rockfall hazard along trail and in alcoves; heat exhaustion when hiking out of canyon; Snake House significant rockfall Potential rock

flash flooding

INTRODUCTION 

16MISSION GOALSWhat are the ideal conditions that the National Park Service should try to attain? Resource Stewardship 

A. Stewardship for cliff dwellings and all other 

cultural resources balances National Park Service laws and policies with American Indian concerns. 

B. Natural resources (processes, systems, and 

values) are allowed to continue in balance with stewardship of archeological resources and the greater ethnographic landscape. 

C. Water quality and quantity, good air quality, 

species that are threatened, endangered, or of concern, scenic vistas, and natural soundscapes and lightscapes are protected. 

D. Museum collection of artifacts and archives 

are properly inventoried, catalogued, stored, and secured, and through consultation with affiliated American Indian tribes, appropriate items are repatriated.

Visitor Understanding 

E. Visitors understand and appreciate native and 

other cultures of this region through time. 

F. A range of experiences are provided that 

promote visitor understanding of the resourcefulness of the 13th- century cliff dwelling builders, the wholeness of the environment, connections to other cultures, and spiritual values. 

G. The remoteness that has kept the 

dwellings in such pristine conditfosters within visitors an elemenand desire to explore is protectedunderstanding of the wholeness landscape and peoples. 

H. Opportunities for people with di

expanded and improved. 

I. Opportunities for youth to gain u

about the monument as well as pits management are expanded an

Partnerships 

J. Good relationships with all assoc

American Indian groups are devemaintained. 

K. American Indian tribes are invol

interpretation and management 

Facilities And Operations 

L. Safe, quality, sustainable facilitie

desired visitor experience and sumaintenance and administration

M. An adequate land base and agree

visitor access and administration

N. Local American Indian employee

recruited and retained to provide perspectives on management and visitor understanding. 
MAIN ISSUES OF THE GMP These issues were uncovered during public scoping and tribal consultations regarding the general management plan. Resource Stewardship • Unauthorized access and vandalism threaten destruction of cliff 

dwellings. 

• Pressure for more visitor access (visitors and economic 

development for Navajo Nation) threatens sensitive resources, including species that are threatened, endangered, or of concern. 

• Artifacts—The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation 

Act (NAGPRA) needs to be addressed; need proper storage and cataloging. 

• NPS policies and American Indian concerns may conflict. 

• Adjacent land—uses have effects on air, water, natural quiet, views, 

dark night sky. 

• Scenic aircraft overflights impair natural quiet and visitor 

understanding. 

• Visitor use may disrupt ethnographic use. 

• Navajo Nation and Natural Heritage Program are interested in 

collaborative management of natural resources. 

Visitor Understanding • What is the main message to visitors from Navajo National 

Monument? 

• Opportunities to more broadly interpret cultures are missed. 

• Most visitors will not visit ancient dwellings. How do they 

understand the story and significance? 

• The monument does not offer much for children; little outreach. 

• Some visitors want more access to cliff dwellings. 

• The alcove over Betatakin cliff dwelling is n

enter during certain times of the year. 

• Opportunities for people with disabilities a

• A third of visitors are from foreign countrie

barriers to providing information and unde

• The name “Navajo National Monument” is 

“Monument Valley” and does not fully reprAmerican Indian tribes. 

Partnerships • The NPS is dependent on the Navajo Nat

such as public access to remote cliff dwelagreements may not be adequate for the f

• The Navajo Nation and its local subdivisi

local residents) are interested in economitourism, some of which may differ from t

• Other associated American Indian tribes wa

Navajo National Monument. 

• Better communication is needed with all as

Indian tribes. 

Facilities And Operations • Existing facilities and infrastructure are alm

inadequate. 

• Aspen Forest trail has some rock hazard be

• Local staff is extremely valuable, and needs 

recruited and retained. 

• Recruitment of members of other associate

• More staff may be needed to implement the 

employee housing is a significant obstacle t
INTRODUCTION 

18

Based on the purpose and significance of the monument, the mission of the National Park Service, and the comments received from the public and through tribal consultation, these are the central questions to be answered by the general management plan. 

Core Questions of the GMP 

1. RESOURCE STEWARDSHIP—How will resources be 

protected for future generations? 

2. VISITOR UNDERSTANDING—How will visitor 

understanding be improved? 

3. PARTNERSHIPS—How will associated American 

Indian tribes, scientists, and others be more fully involved with the monument? 

4. FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS—What facilities, staff, 

and funding will be needed to fulfill the plan? 
• 

OVERALL PHILOSOPHY: EMPHASIZE PARTNERSHIPS The National Park Service will continue to manage the existing land base and in addition will share common goals with American Indian tribes and others to protect resources and promote visitor understanding of the entire region. The NPS will look beyond the boundary for accomplishing joint purposes through cooperation and partnerships. Opportunities for more innovative and diverse programs, education and outreach, science and research, cross training, and broader resource management will be greatly enhanced by a collaborative regional effort. MANAGEMENT PRESCRIPTIONS Management prescriptions are an important part of a general management plan. They are based on the broad analysis of primary resource values, developed in this plan as “significant resource areas,” as well as on the mission goals for the monument. Prescriptions are defined and applied to each particular area of the monument and have two components: • Description of the desired resource conditions and visitor 

experiences to be achieved and maintained over time 

• Identification of the kind and levels of visitor use, management 

activities, and development that are appropriate for maintaining the desired conditions 

For Navajo National Monument, management prescriptions have been developed for the following management areas: 

• Conservation Backcountry • Low- Use Backcountry • Backcountry Service and Support • Front Country Trail • Developed Front Country The general characteristics of these manprescriptions are described below. They each unit, and tailored slightly to the unof the unit, and not all prescriptions are The configuration of how they are appliAlternatives B and C, to fit the philosophalternatives. The prescriptions are not aA, which is the “no action” alternative. Tthe following pages illustrate the managproposed for the units under the alterna

Conservation Backcountry • General: Land within this prescription co

resources and is off limits to visitors. 

• Resource Condition: Resources, systems

generally unimpaired by human influencecultural purposes will continue through tuse permits when necessary. While grazinNPS land, there are areas affected by livesthey are managed to mitigate those impac

• Remoteness: The setting is natural, with

intrusions in the landscape such as buildiis quiet, with only natural sounds. At nighdark. 
THE PLAN 

20• Visitor Understanding and Experience: Visitors view the area 

from a distance and learn from off site, because they are not allowed in this area. 

• Facilities: None. • NPS Management Activities: To manage the unit, the National 

Park Service will conduct research, patrols, mitigation, and maintenance. Horses or vehicles will not be used. 

Low- Use Backcountry • General: The area within this prescription also contains very 

sensitive resources, and visitor opportunities to experience these resources are guided. 

• Resource Condition: Resources, systems, and processes have a 

very high integrity. There may be a slight disturbance in the travel corridor, but the area is otherwise undisturbed by human influences. Access for traditional cultural purposes will continue through the issuance of special use permits when necessary. While grazing is not allowed on NPS land, there are areas affected by livestock that trespass, and they are managed to mitigate those impacts. 

• Remoteness: Natural setting has few man- made intrusions. The 

natural soundscape would dominate, with occasional noise from 

other visitors or activities of neighbors. At night the sky is generally dark. 

• Visitor Understanding and Experience: Visitors can 

experience canyon views and remoteness and undertake moderate to strenuous guided hikes to cliff dwellings and other remarkable resources. The effort required and limited times and sizes of tours make this experience available to only a small percentage of visitors. Horses, bicycles, or vehicles are not allowed. 

• Facilities: Facilities include unpaved trai

composting toilets, supply caches, and ra

• NPS Management Activities: To manage 

Park Service will conduct patrols, researcmaintenance. Horses or vehicles will not 

Backcountry Service and Supp• General: This prescription area, used on

is largely natural but slightly modified to management activities. 

• Resource Condition: Resources, systems

good integrity. There may be disturbancemanagement, and trespass grazing. Efforteliminate trespass grazing and trampling Access for traditional cultural purposes wthe issuance of special use permits when 

• Remoteness: The setting is largely natura

light intrusions from lanterns, campers, poccasional management use of a helicopt

• Visitor Understanding and Experience

experiences are available for visitors, inclcamping, picnicking, and ranger programor pack stock will not be allowed on NPS allowed outside of the boundary at a desisuch an area is agreed on through partne

• NPS Management Activities: To manage 

Park Service will conduct patrols, researcmaintenance, and may use occasional pacvehicles (ATV’s) to resupply the ranger st
Front Country Trail • General: This prescription area, used only at the headquarters 

area on the rim, is largely natural but contains a network of easy to moderate trails and minor facilities for many visitors to experience resources of Navajo National Monument. 

• Resource Condition: The integrity of resources, systems, and 

processes is good, but modifications have been made for trails and associated minor facilities and there are some effects resulting from the large number of visitors in this prescription area. 

• Remoteness: The character is rural, but busy with people and 

nearby development that interrupts the natural soundscape with vehicle noise and talking and pierces the darkness with some light from employee housing. 

• Visitor Understanding and Experience: A variety and network 

of trails and overlooks offer a great number of visitors the opportunity to hike on their own and learn independently from wayside exhibits. There are also opportunities for ranger- led walks and a variety of opportunities for people with disabilities. Vehicles, horses, and bicycles are not allowed 

• Facilities: This prescription area includes paved and unpaved 

trails, viewpoints, wayside exhibits, signs, composting or vault toilets, benches, and shade structures. 

• NPS Management Activities: To manage the unit, the NPS will 

conduct research, patrols, mitigation, and maintenance, and may use occasional vehicles (ATV’s) or pack stock to support maintenance. 

Developed Front Country • General: This prescription area contains most of the visitor and 

administrative facilities of the monument and is only used at the headquarters unit. 

• Resource Condition: A natural appearan

disturbances will occur to allow facilities administration. Impacts of grazing and trland are minimized. Access for traditiona

continue through the issuance of special necessary. 

• Remoteness: Rural character, but definit

buildings, utilities, parking lots, and roadand lightscapes are affected by noise and visitors, and maintenance and staff activitfrom the sewage lagoon affect campers. 

• Visitor Understanding and Experience

activities, programs, and facilities provide to learn about and enjoy the monument. center, audio- visual programs, exhibits, a walks, ranger programs, camping, driving and opportunities for people with disabil

staying only a short time, this is the primaexperience Navajo National Monument. 

• Facilities: Structures include the visitor c

space, storage buildings, NPS maintenancemployee residences, and a well house. Ocampground, picnic area, amphitheater, poverlooks, and utilities. 

• NPS Management Activities: This presc

most of the NPS management activities, inon roads, patrols, maintenance, mitigationew facilities. 
THE PLAN 

22

Betatakin/Talastima Management Prescriptions 

Conservation 

Backcountry 

Low-Use 

Backcountry 

Front Country 

Trail 

Resource Condition 

Resources, systems, and processes are preserved unimpaired; access for traditional cultural purposes will continue through the issuance of special use permits when necessary; grazing and trampling impacts minimized on agreement land.

High integrity of resources, systems, and processes; access for traditional cultural purposes will continue through the issuance of special use permits when necessary; grazing and trampling impacts minimized on agreement land. 

Good integrity of resources, systems, and processes; access for traditional cultural purposes will continue through the issuance of special use permits when necessary; grazing and trampling impacts minimized on agreement land. 

Natumaioccufacilcultuthrouse grazmin

Remoteness Natural landscape, natural soundscapes and lightscapes. Natural setting with a few man- made intrusions, minimal sound intrusion, lightscapes. 

Rural setting affected by sight, sound, and light from development, visitors, staff, vehicles, lights, and by odors from sewer lagoon. 

Devdevactivodo

Visitor Understanding 

and Experience 

View and learn from off site; no visitors allowed in area. 

Canyon views, moderate to strenuous guided hiking tours, remote experience,; no bicycles, horses, or vehicles. 

Distant landscape vistas; easy to moderate self-guided hiking; independent learning from waysides, ranger-led walks; opportunities for people with disabilities; no bicycles, horses, or vehicles. 

Visitexhboocamroadwith 

Facilities None. 

Unpaved trails, signs, fences, composting toilets, supply caches, radio repeaters. 

Paved and unpaved trails, viewpoints, wayside exhibits, signs, composting or vault toilets, benches, shade structures. 

Strupowmaibuild

NPS Management 

Activities 

Research, patrols, mitigation, maintenance; no motor vehicle use or pack stock use.

Patrols, research, tours, mitigation, maintenance; no motor vehicle use or pack stock use.

Motor vehicle (ATV) use, pack stock, research, patrols, mitigation, maintenance.

Maxvehmaidev

THE PLAN 

24

Keet Seel / Kawestima Management Prescriptions 

Conservation 

Backcountry 

Low-Use 

Backcountry 

Ba

Servic

Resource Condition 

Resources, systems, and processes are preserved unimpaired; access for traditional cultural purposes will continue through the issuance of special use permits when necessary. 

High integrity of resources, systems, and processes; access for traditional cultural purposes will continue through the issuance of special use permits when necessary. 

Good integrity of rprocesses; access purposes will contspecial use permitand trampling imp

Remoteness Natural landscape, natural soundscapes and lightscapes. Natural setting with a few man-made intrusions, minimal sound intrusion, lightscapes. Natural setting, so

from ATV's, lanteretc. 

Visitor Understanding and 

Experience 

View and learn from off site, no visitors allowed on site. 

Canyon views, moderate to strenuous guided hiking tours, remote experience; no bicycles, horses, or vehicles. 

Canyon views, pichiking, ranger provehicles only outs

Facilities None. 

Unpaved trails, signs, fences, composting toilets, supply caches, radio repeaters. 

Trails, ATV parkincomposting toiletspicnic area, waysi

NPS Management Activities 

Research, patrols, mitigation, maintenance; no motor vehicle use or pack stock use.

Patrols, research, tours, mitigation, maintenance; no motor vehicle use or pack stock use.

Research, patrolsoccasional motor use, pack stock (eunder Alternative 

THE PLAN 

26

Inscription House/Tsu’ Ovi Management Prescriptions 

Conservation 

Backcountry 

Low-Use 

Backcountry 

Resource Condition 

Resources, systems, and processes are preserved unimpaired; access for traditional cultural purposes will continue through the issuance of special use permits when necessary; grazing and trampling impacts minimized. 

High integrity of resources, systems, processes; access for traditional cultpurposes will continue through the issuance of special use permits whenecessary; grazing and trampling im

Remoteness Natural landscape, natural soundscapes and lightscapes. Natural setting with a few man-made intrusions, minimal sound intrusion, lightscapes. 

Visitor Understanding and 

Experience 

View and learn from off site, no visitors allowed on site. 

Canyon and expansive views, guided tours, remote experience; no vehiclebicycles, or horses. 

Facilities None. Trails, fences, ranger station, supply cache, composting toilet, radio repea

NPS Management Activities Research, patrols, mitigation, maintenance; no motor vehicle use or pack stock use. Patrols, research, tours, mitigation, maintenance; no motor vehicle use o

stock use.
PLAN 
THE PLAN 

28
RESOURCES STEWARDSHIP—NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES, ETHNOGRAPHIC RESOURCES Mission Goal: 

A. Stewardship of cliff dwellings and all other cultural resources balances National Park Service laws and policies with American Indian concerns. 

Cultural Resources Navajo National Monument is listed in the National Register of Historic Places because the monument preserves and interprets nationally significant cultural resources. The monument is also designated a “Vanishing Treasures” park (an initiative designed to address the ongoing loss of architectural resources in the arid west). Cultural resources include the well known villages of Betatakin, Inscription House, and Keet Seel, which represent some of the best preserved examples of pre- contact communities, as well as the lesser known pre- contact structures of Turkey Cave, Snake House, Owl House, and Kiva Cave. The monument also has various examples of petroglyphs and pictographs; a multitude of small, open pre- contact sites that reflect seasonal occupation and use; and a variety of Navajo sites related to domestic, ceremonial, and livestock management activities. There are also historic structures from the Wetherill era, and potentially historic structures from the early development of the monument during the 1930s and 1940s. The long interaction between man and the land and the influence of human beliefs and actions over time upon the natural landscape have shaped it, forming a cultural landscape. Any 

potentially significant ethnographic or hhave yet to be evaluated for National Re

Stewardship is the responsible care of thentrusted by the people of the United StaPark Service. As with all units of the natimanagement of Navajo National Monumresources is guided by the Organic Act (National Park Service; as well as other feregulations and National Park Service pand standards. Any action that affects cuwould be undertaken only if it is consistmonument’s purposes, as well as applicaregulations, policies, guidelines, standar
THE PLAN 

30One of the important provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act is that for any action that affects cultural resources either listed on the National Register of Historic Places or eligible to be listed, there must be consultation with the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO), who is from the Historic Preservation Office of the Navajo Nation, associated tribes including Hopi, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni, and as necessary, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and the public. 

Actions For all actions that would affect cultural THPO and associated tribes would be co• Develop programmatic agreements betwe

 THPO (Historic Preservation Office of t

San Juan Paiute, and Zuni regarding the resources. 

 Affiliated tribes regarding the Native Am

Repatriation Act. Agreements will be souIndians linked by ties of kinship or cultuidentifiable sacred objects, objects of cu

unassociated funerary objects, or human funerary objects, when such objects or ror are encountered on monument lands and policy. 

• Complete surveys and studies: 

 Survey for archeological resources on th

 Conduct ethnographic resources invent Conduct cultural landscape inventory. 

• Evaluate and document the significance o

resources, structures, and landscapes (wiassociated tribes and determination by ththe National Register of Historic Places; uclassified structures as needed. 

• Provide stewardship of cultural resources

 Protect and preserve archeological reso

landscapes, unless it is determined throuenvironmental analysis and consultation(Historic Preservation Office of the NavJuan Paiute, and Zuni that either naturaappropriate or disturbance is unavoidab

Major Laws, Regulations, Policies, 

and Standards 

• National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended (16 

USC 470) 

• Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979 (16 USC 470)• Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s implementing 

regulations regarding the “Protection of Historic Properties” (36 CFR 800) 

• Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act 

(1990) 

• Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of 

Historic Properties (1995) 

• Chapter V of the National Park Service’s Management 

Policies (1988) 

• National Park Service’s Cultural Resources Management 

Guideline (Director’s Order 28, 1998) 

• National Park Service Management Policies (2001) 
• Protect Cliff Dwellings and Environment from Vandalism: 

 Seek cooperative agreements or hire local people to patrol sites. 

 In cooperation with the Navajo Nation, who has jurisdiction over 

adjacent lands, establish a guide association to manage appropriate visitor use, develop memorandum of understanding to coordinate permits and manage access. 

 Seek cooperation from publishers to respect and protect the 

sensitivity of these sites. 

• Inventory, Monitoring, Implementation Plans, and Management: 

 Hire additional NPS staff to ensure inventory, monitoring, 

developing implementation plans and management of natural and cultural resources in consultation with associated American Indian tribes. 

 Seek cooperative agreements with associated tribes, scientists, and 

others to develop programs for youth training and internships for stewardship of archeological resources, structures, and cultural landscapes. 

 Record and document sites and structures if natural deterioration 

of resources is permitted, or if disturbance of the resources is unavoidable. 

 Prepare historic structure reports, as necessary, to guide future 

maintenance and/or rehabilitation of historic structures. 

 Undertake preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration, as well as 

the daily, cyclical, and seasonal maintenance of cultural resources in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

 Avoid known archeological resources during construction and 

take appropriate mitigation steps if resources are discovered. 

 Develop a current resources management plan to prioritize and 

guide research, monitoring, and management. 

• American Indians linked by ties of kinship or culture to 

ethnically identifiable human remains would be consulted when remains may be disturbed or are encountered on monument lands. 
THE PLAN 

32Mission Goals: 

B. Natural resources (processes, systems, and values) are allowed to continue in balance with stewardship of archeological resources and the greater ethnographic landscape. C. Water quality and quantity, good air quality, species that are threatened, endangered, or of concern, scenic vistas, and natural soundscapes and lightscapes are protected. 

Natural Resources The natural resources of Navajo National Monument include the geology, soils, plants, animals, springs, seeps, streams, and air. While all of these elements are important, the integrity of their interaction as a natural system is vital. The natural resources on the isolated federal tracts of land are surrounded and affected by the management of Navajo Nation land. There are several threatened or endangered species or species of concern in and around the monument. Other key resources include scenic vistas, and natural soundscape and lightscape. Natural resources are also important to the cultural and spiritual lives of associated American Indians (see discussion on “Ethnographic Resources”). As with all units of the national park system, management of Navajo National Monument’s natural resources is guided by the Organic Act (1916) creating the National Park Service as well as other federal laws and regulations and National Park Service policies, guidelines, and standards. Any action that affects natural resources would be undertaken only if it is consistent with the monument’s purposes, as well as with applicable laws, regulations, policies, guidelines, and this plan. 

Actions The general direction of NPS natural reis to perpetuate natural systems. Many aresource management must be done in cothers, including the U.S. Fish and WildArizona Fish and Game Department, thDepartment of Natural Resources, and aRecognizing American Indian people’s t

Major Laws, Regulations, a

• NPS Organic Act of 1916 (16 USC 1) • National Environmental Policy Act of 19

• Endangered Species Act of 1973, as ame

1543) 

• Bald and Golden Eagles Protection Act, 

668- 668d) 

• Executive Order 11987: Exotic Organism• Federal Water Pollution Control Act (C

amended (33 USC 1251) 

• Safe Drinking Water Act (42 USC 201) 

• Watershed Protection and Flood Preven• Executive Order 11988: Floodplain Man• EO 11990: Protection of Wetlands • Clean Air Act, as amended (42 USC 7401• National Park Service Management Poli• EO 13112: Invasive Species • 36 CFR 2.1 Preservation of Natural, Cult

Archeological Resources 
cultural relationship to natural environmental resources, Navajo National Monument will consult regularly to incorporate Indian values, ideals, and uses in management of natural resources and environmental awareness programs. • Hire additional NPS staff to ensure inventory, monitoring, and research 

of vegetation and wildlife (including traditional knowledge), develop 

vital signs research to detect changes. 

• Manage for native ecosystem processes 

 Minimize human impacts on native plants, animals, and ecosystems and 

the processes that sustain them. 

 Use only weed- free feed for pack stock.  Remove exotic species using integrated pest management practices  Restore native vegetation to federal tracts impacted by livestock and pack 

stock grazing and trampling. 

 Minimize disturbances and introduction of exotic plants by visitors.  Work cooperatively with neighbors and other agencies to control weeds 

and minimize invasion.

• Identify and protect threatened and endangered species, species of 

concern, and their habitats in consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Arizona Fish and Game Department, the Navajo Nation Department of Natural Resources, and other tribes. 

• Study the role of fire in the natural and cultural landscape, and develop 

a fire management plan in consultation with appropriate neighbors, tribes, and agencies. 

• Monitor water quality, groundwater quality and quantity, air quality, 

natural soundscape, scenic beauty, and lightscapes; seek to protect through consultation and agreements. 

• Continue to study and monitor rockfall hazard (which affects visitor 

safety, cliff dwellings, and other cultural resources) and arroyo erosion, develop strategies to mitigate the impacts of these inevitable events, such as closures for visitor safety or documentation of eroding archeological sites. 

• Develop a current resources management plan to identify and prioritize 

needs for inventory, monitoring, research, and management, in consultation with the public, associated tribes, and agencies.

• Continue and expand cooperative relationshi

Resources Division, Glen Canyon National Remanagement staff, and others in addressing w

• Prevent Exotic Weeds Contamination from P

 Improve barriers to livestock on federal unit Exclude pack stock from the federal backcou Use only weed- free feed for NPS pack stock  Encourage partnerships that require future g

free feed for pack stock. 

• Explore agreements with Navajo Nation for c

of natural resources. 

Ethnographic Resources Navajo National Monument is within thReservation. The associated Hopi, Navaand Zuni cultures are inextricably bounlands, which were occupied by their anctribes view the park landscape as spiritucontaining places vital to the continuity identity. Navajo National Monument wirecognize the past and present existence region and the traces of their use as an imcultural environment to be preserved anNavajo National Monument will continto ethnographic resources for traditionathrough the issuance of special use permDecisions to grant special use permits foethnographic resources will be based on anthropological studies and consultatioActions • Continue to recognize the past and present ex

region and the traces of their use as an impor

environment to be preserved and interpreted
THE PLAN 

34• Consult with associated American Indian tribes to develop and 

accomplish the programs of Navajo National Monument in a way that respects the beliefs, traditions, and other cultural values of the American Indian tribes who have ancestral ties to the monument lands. 

• Maintain government- to- government relations with associated 

American Indian tribes, to ensure a collaborative working relationship prior to taking actions that would affect natural and cultural resources that are of interest and concern to them. 

• Accommodate access to Indian sacred sites by 

practitioners in a manner that is consistent wand does not interfere with Indian use of tradresources. Avoid adversely affecting the phys

and resources. 

• Conduct appropriate cultural anthropologica

with (or conducted by) monument- associated 

RESOURCE STEWARDSHIP—COLLECTION Mission Goal: 

D. Museum collection of artifacts and arinventoried, cataloged, stored, and secureconsultation with affiliated American Inditems are repatriated. 

Artifacts and Archives in MusThousands of objects, artifacts, and naturas well as archival and manuscript materiaNational Monument museum collection amonument resources to be preserved and the collection was amassed from the early when excavations occurred. Current policarcheological artifacts be protected in placan be clearly justified. New artifacts may collection from erosion, construction disthistory specimens, or archives. Nearly 50 percent of the collection has yet significant portions of the collection are hfacilities, including Navajo National MonPark Service’s Western Archeological ConMuseum of Northern Arizona, and 15 othe

Major Laws, Regulations, and Policies 

• Indian Self- Determination and Education Assistance Act of 

1975 (25 USC 450- 451n, 455- 458e) 

• American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978 (42 USC 1996) 

• Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 

1990 (25 USC 3001- 3013) 

• Presidential Memorandum of April 29, 1994, Government- toGovernment Relations with Native American Tribal 

Governments 

• National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended (16 USC 

470) 

• Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979 (16 USC 470) 

• Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s implementing 

regulations regarding the “Protection of Historic Properties” (36 CFR 800) 

• Executive Order 13007, May 24, 1996, Indian Sacred Sites 

• National Park Service’s Cultural Resources Management 

Guideline (Director’s Order 28, 1998) 

• NPS Organic Act of 1916 (16 USC 1) 

• National Environmental Policy Act of 1970 (42 USC 4321) 

• National Park Service Management Policies (2001) 
Many of the artifacts collected were treated with toxic chemicals to preserve them and are hazardous to NPS employees as well as to tribal members who are interested in repatriation. Actions • Inventory and catalog all museum collections in accordance with 

standards in the National Park Service’s Museum Handbook.

• Consult with affiliated Indians, regarding each acquisition that 

involves American Indian human remains, associated or unassociated funerary objects, sacred objects, or objects of cultural patrimony, and facilitate appropriate repatriation. 

• Prepare and implement a collection management program, 

according to National Park Service standards, to guide protection, conservation, and use of museum objects. 

• Accession and catalog all objects. Survey, accession, catalog, 

arrange, and describe archival and manuscript material and produce finding aids. 

• Ensure that objects housed in repositories/institutions outside the 

monument are preserved, protected, and documented according to National Park Service standards and procedures.

• Location of Collection 

 Pursue the consolidation of the collections at Western Archeological 

Conservation Center (WACC in Tucson) and several other known institutions to either WACC or another regional NPS curatorial facility serving several parks. Factors to determine the best location include secure protection of items, American Indian concerns, accessibility to researchers and park staff, and cost. 

• Storage/Workspace at Monument 

 Develop a curatorial workspace and small, secure climate- controlled 

storage facility in the monument to catalog, treat, and store a select number of objects, artifacts, natural history specimens, and archives. The purpose of this small repository would be to store items for rotation into displays in the visitor center and storage of natural history specimens. 

Most items would eventually be sent to permconsolidated location selected. In addition, space would be constructed for holding tribrepatriation. 

• Visitor Center Exhibits. 

 Develop secure and climate- controlled disp

in the expanded visitor center space. 

• Curatorial Staff. 

 Add a professional curator to NPS staff. 

Major Laws, Regulations, an

• NPS Organic Act of 1916 (16 USC 1) • Antiquities Act of 1906 (16 USC 431- 433) • Museum Properties Act of 1955 • National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as • Archeological Resources Protection Act of 197• Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s im

regulations regarding the “Protection of HistoCFR 800) 

• National Park Service’s Cultural Resources Ma

(DO- 28, 1996) 

• National Park Service’s Museum Handbook• Native American Graves Protection and Repat• Presidential Memorandum of April 29, 1994, e

to- Government Relations with Native AmericGovernments” 

• National Park Service Management Policies (
THE PLAN 

36VISITOR UNDERSTANDING—INTERPRETATION Mission Goal: 

E. Visitors understand and appreciate native and other cultures of this region through time. 

Broaden Interpretive Stories Strong interest in ancient cliff dwellings draws people to the monument, providing an opportunity to introduce visitors to an expansive perspective. People will have opportunities to learn about the entire rich tapestry of cultures that have been woven into the canyon environments for more than a thousand years. Whether people are visiting for a short time on the mesa and rim or spending more time to camp and hike to Betatakin or Keet Seel, interpretation will be broadened to offer more diverse viewpoints. Themes would include the adaptation of people to their environment, the complex culture reflected by the details of the cliff dwellings, natural systems and processes and the interaction of humans, and the connections of the cliff dwellings to other cultures and other times. One- third of all visitors to Navajo National Monument are from foreign countries. Additionally, many local people speak primarily native languages, which are not commonly written. There is a need for multiple translations in order to have meaningful interpretation as well as to communicate important messages concerning resource protection and safety.Actions • Consult with Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni tribal 

members to strengthen the content of programs, wayside signs, 

brochures, video, and exhibits. In some coverlapping interpretations will be providwithout attempts to combine or judge the

• Strive to involve American Indian tribes a

interpretation program to promote the acpresented regarding American Indian culenhance public appreciation of those valu

• Seek to participate as partners with assoc

planning for and conducting projects and the quality of the experiences of visitors tenhance the levels of public appreciation resources and values. 

• Expand the availability of translations of 

and programs into other languages. 

• Develop a comprehensive interpretive pla

· The mission of interpretation is to 

visitor understanding and apprecsignificance of park resources. 

· Interpretive services provide oppo

people to forge their own intellectuemotional connections to the meaninherent in the resources of the pa

MAJOR LAWS, REGU

AND POLICIE

• NPS Director’s Order 6 (DO- 6), Int

• National Park Service Management 
VISITOR UNDERSTANDING—FRONT COUNTRY EXPERIENCE Mission Goal 

F. A range of experiences are provided to promote visitor understanding of the resourcefulness of the 13th- century cliff dwelling builders, the wholeness of the environment, connections to other cultures, and spiritual values. 

Visitor Understanding on the Mesa How will most visitors, who only stay a short time on top of the mesa, understand what is important about Navajo National Monument? Most visitors are on their way to another destination and stay less than three hours. They go to the visitor center and hike the short Sandal Trail to view Betatakin across the canyon. At the visitor center, they can view exhibits, watch an audio- visual program, talk with staff and volunteers, pick up interpretive brochures, and purchase books. Western National Parks Association continues to be an integral partner in providing interpretive publications and volunteers serving visitors in the monument. Distance and time deter most visitors from Betatakin and Keet Seel tours. Even if many more were convinced to commit to the hike, fragile resources are unable to withstand too much visitation. The mesa top and canyon rim will continue to provide the main opportunity for visitor understanding. The alternatives vary in how those opportunities are provided. 
THE PLAN 

38Actions • Trails, Overlooks, and Outdoor Exhibits 

 Expand and improve outdoor exhibits to more completely illustrate 

Navajo life past and present. Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni Tribes would be consulted during the development of these improvements. 

 Develop additional trails, wayside exhibits, and overlooks. Vistas and 

high points would be used to interpret broader themes identified in the introduction. 

• Visitor Center 

 Remodel existing visitor center to provide improved audio- visual 

programs and exhibits that would emphasize cultures and broader themes outlined in the introduction. Foster interaction between visitors, interpreters, and partners. 

 Increase the direct involvement of the Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Pauite, and 

Zuni in developing interpretive materials, exhibits, waysides, and programs, as well as providing programs in the monument. 

 Re- establish American Indian craft demonstrations, skills, and other 

special events on the patio. A funding source would be sought to support this activity and not compete with the established arts and crafts shop. 

• Interpretive Staff 

 Emphasize recruitment of associated American Indian tribal members for 

seasonal interpreter jobs and support with necessary housing. Provide comprehensive interpretive training for expanded interpretive staff (including associated tribes) 

VISITOR UNDERSTANDING—BACKCOUNTRY EXPERIENCE Mission Goal: 

G. Protect the remoteness that has kept the ancient dwellings in such pristine condition and that fosters within visitors an element of mystique and desire to explore and understand the wholeness of the landscape and peoples. 

AccesKeet InscrOne of of NavaMonumvisitors to this premoteprotectconditidwellinsetting is unliktourist guided 

ranger, often a young local Navajo, offeropportunities to discuss the ancient villamigrations, flowers, wildlife, and Navajo unforgettable experience fosters deep uWhile remoteness has been identified as protect at Navajo National Monument, meet criteria for inclusion in the NationPreservation System because the units asmaller than the 5,000 acres considered size, and adjacent land is non- federal. The ancient village sites are very fragile withstand much foot traffic. Inscription the general public in 1968 because it was 

too delicate to host visitors. Individuals Superintendent for a special use permit (but not the town site or structures) for 
are not injurious to park resources. Anyone not enrolled in the Navajo Tribe of Indians is required to also get a permit from the Navajo Nation to cross Navajo lands to get to the federal unit. The current Backcountry Management Plan

(1995) for Navajo National Monument is hereby incorporated into this document by reference. It sets a maximum capacity of 1,500 visitors per year for Keet Seel and limits Betatakin to a maximum of 25 people per day on one guided hike. The hike to Betatakin is 21⁄2 miles each way over Tsegi Point and into the canyon. Currently, there is one guided tour per day for up to 25 people during the summer months, and it takes about five hours. Keet Seel is 81⁄2 miles each way, and people usually backpack and stay overnight. Up to 20 permits per day are issued in the summer months, and a ranger stationed at the sites gives guided tours. Most of trails to these sites are situated upon Navajo Nation lands and cross private areas of land held under individual grazing permits. The Aspen Forest trail to Betatkin has been closed since 1983 because of significant rockfalls in 1982 and 1983. During the planning process, the re- opening of the Aspen Forest trail was raised but not considered safe or practical because of several studies (Lachel Hansen and Associates, 1985, Wieczorek and Harp, 2000, and NPS 2000b). If new information and risk analysis in the future indicates that there are routes or times of the year visitors could safely go down the head of the canyon, it would be considered for reopening in an environmental assessment which would include opportunities for public involvement, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service consultation, and tribal consultation. 

Actions • Continue to guide all visitors who go to th

provide firsthand understanding and to p

• Continue access to Betatakin via the Tseg

guided tours. 

• The National Park Service has an obligati

sensitive resources on the proclamation lwithin the existing maximum capacities sBackcountry Management Plan until furthplanning is completed. 

• The National Park Service does not allow 

stock, motorized vehicles, or other wheelbackcountry areas of the proclamation lafragility of natural and cultural resources

• The National Park Service will collect add

the types and levels of use that will protecresources and visitor experience, and to imonitor impacts. 

• The NPS and the Navajo Nation Parks an

Department will work together on a joint GMP that will discuss managing the visitoaccess to Betatakin, Keet Seel, and Inscripaddress protection of natural and culturaunique visitor opportunities, public accesmethods of access, tourism interests of thconcerns of adjacent residents, and other opportunities. The NPS and Navajo NatioDepartment will work with the various legovernment and local residents in the devand provide opportunities for public com

*Proclamation lands are the three non-contiPresidential Proclamation of 1912 as Navaj
THE PLAN 

40• Commercial services to provide access, such as horseback tours, 

would be subject to permits and regulations from the land 

interests involved, including the NPS, BIA, and Navajo Nation. 

• Extend visitor season to March 1 through October 31, pending 

available staff and demand. 

• Betatakin 

 Continue guided tour in groups no larger than 25, but increase number of 

tours per day (up to four, pending available staff and demand). 

• Keet Seel 

 Up to 20 people per day by reservation and permit, primarily overnight 

backpack, ranger- led tour. Visitors allowed in limited area of village with guide. Closely monitor potential impacts of guided visitors within limited area of village and limit further or close if necessary. The backcountry campsite would preferably remain at its current location, but may be moved within the NPS boundary if current agreements on tribal lands change. 

• Off- Site Interpretation 

 Improve interpretation at remodeled visitor center for Betatakin, Keet 

Seel, and Inscription House, such as real- time cameras. 

• Tour Guides 

 Recruit Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni tour guides, to further 

enhance multiple perspectives. 

• Alternative Access 

 Work proactively with neighbors and the Na

appropriate potential alternative visitor acceBetatakin, Keet Seel, and Inscription House, and promote visitor understanding. 

• Inscription House 

 Establish limited guided tours to base of (bu

House, pending access agreements with adjaOther activities require a special use permit Nation. 

MAJOR LAWS, REGULA

POLICIES 

• National Parks and Recreation Act

USC 1 

• Title 36 of the Code of Federal Reg• National Park Service Management 
VISITOR UNDERSTANDING—NAME OF THE MONUMENT Actions • Work with formal consultation committee of associated 

American Indian Tribes to determine and agree on a name that: 

 Reflects the cultural affiliation of the builders and inhabitants of the cliff 

dwellings. 

 Reflects the broader themes of native cultures through time.  If associated tribes agree on a new name, support them in seeking 

legislation to change.

The name “Navajo National Monumesome to obscure the significance of the resmisunderstanding. While the monument Navajo Nation and surrounded by Navaalso associated with the Hopi, San Juan P(discussed in the introduction). Further, tconfusion from the similarly named “MoNavajo Tribal Park,” owned and managNation. The name “Navajo National Monumentthe presidential proclamation of 1909 thamonument, administered by the Nationawould require an act of Congress or anotProclamation to change the name. Such a

as a bill sponsored by the local U.S. repreU.S. senators in response to a proposal wconstituents. 
THE PLAN 

42PROMOTE VISITOR UNDERSTANDING—OPPORTUNITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Mission Goal: 

H. Opportunities for people with disabilities are expanded and improved. 

Accessibility for Disabled Persons Every reasonable effort will be made to make facilities, programs, and services of the National Park Service accessible to and usable by all people (visitors and employees), including those who have disabilities. Major visitor facilities such as the visitor center, terrace, picnic sites, and two campsites are handicapped accessible. The video program in the visitor center is captioned. The maintenance area and housing are not accessible. Actions: • Continue to improve interpretive programs with opportunities 

for a full spectrum of disabilities, including mobility, hearing, sight, and mental impairments. 

• All rehabilitation of existing and construction of new facilities 

will provide reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities. 

• Visitor Center 

 A remodeled and expanded visitor center and outdoor exhibits would 

meet requirements for access for people with disabilities. Programs, exhibits, audio- visual program, and wayside signs would be developed to address the needs of people with mobility, hearing, vision, and mental impairments. Real- time camera would bring cliff dwelling tours to the mesa top. 
• Campground and Picnic Area 

 More picnic sites, campsites, and the campground rest room would be 

made accessible. 

• Front Country Trails 

 Many of the new front country overlooks and trails would meet or exceed 

requirements for access for people with disabilities. 

• Operations and Administration 

 Remodeled and new administrative space, new employee housing, and 

new maintenance facilities would be accessible. 

• Other 

 Partnerships may be able to provide opportunities for the 

disabled into the backcountry through guides, horseback, or compatible vehicles.

PROMOTE VISITOR UNDERSTANDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH Mission Goal: 

I. Opportunities for youth to gain understanding about the monument as well as participate in its management are expanded and improved. 

Actions: • Visitor Center. 

 Design new exhibits, indoors and out, with y

mind. 

• Programs. 

 Develop partnerships with associated tribes 

programs and materials for youth for use at other locations. Use the expanded staff and programs at the monument and travel to sch

 Establish a youth intern program and suppo

to attract Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Paiute, and in interpretation, resource management, mamanagement. 

 Seek grants and partnerships to support pro

PARTNERSHIPS Mission Goals: 

J. Good relationships with all associated are developed and maintained. K. American Indian tribes are involved in management of resources.

Major Laws, Regulations, and Policies 

• Americans with Disabilities Act (42 USC § 12101) • Architectural Barriers Act (42 USC 4151 et seq.) • Rehabilitation Act (29 USC 701 et seq.) 

Major Laws, Regulations, 

• Indian Self- Determination and Educa

of 1975 (25 USC 450- 451n, 455- 458e) 

• American Indian Religious Freedom A

1996) 

• Native American Graves Protection an

of 1990 (25 USC 3001- 3013) 

• Presidential Memorandum of April 29

to- Government Relations with Native Governments 
THE PLAN 

44Actions: • Government- to- Government Relations. 

 Continue to consult with individual associated American Indian tribes on 

a regular basis. 

• Consultation Committee. Establish a formal inter- tribal American Indian consultation group for the monument that is consistent with "Government- to- Government" federal policy. The inter- tribal group would be representative of four local tribes who have a historical and direct interest in the three units of the monument, including the Hopi, Navajo, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni. The Navajo representation would include Navajo Nation departments, local chapters listed elsewhere in the GMP, tribal townships, and tribal enterprises. The consultation committee would meet at regular intervals, at least annually, to strengthen communication and partnerships between tribes and the NPS. The group would discuss issues and concerns such as the following: 

 Organization and administration of the inter- tribal partnership  Implementation of the GMP  Protection and management cultural, natural, ethnographic resources in 

the monument 

 Law enforcement  NAGPRA  Interpretive programs for visitors  Visitor access  School outreach and programs for youth  Park management and operations  Employment and training opportunities  Information and technology  Identification of complementary 

resources and skills, such as the use of native methods for rehabilitation of archeological sites 

 Improvement of 

communication, such as establishing listening posts 

 Identification of common approaches and v Identification of common stakeholders, cust Consideration of special projects, such as th

celebration in 2009, participation in regionaprotect the park, or community service 

• Other Partnerships. The National Park Service will seek additional agrto achieve common goals of Navajo National Montribes, agencies, universities, organizations, and voPark Service recognizes that any partnership agreeentered into with other entities identified in this ptribal lands must include consultation with the Na

 Sustain and strengthen the partnership with 

Association, a non- profit cooperating assocpublishes, and sells books as well as contriburesearch. 

 Involve local people in patrol of sites to prev Establish a guide association.  Develop internship program for American In Tribal management of a component of the m

interpretation, resource management, or ma

 Seek funding sources, establish foundation o Develop and provide educational programs  Seek universities and organizations for resea Improve road signs in region.  VIP campground host.  Collect fees and reinvest in resource protect

services. 

 Work with regional tourism groups to motiv Reinstate craft demonstrations.  Develop cross- jurisdiction for law enforcem Seek alternatives to provide housing for add

volunteers. 

 Seek variety of funding sources for facilities 

administration, or other needs identified in 

 Seek partnership with Arizona Highway Dep

to protect outstanding vistas on entrance ro
 Continue and expand cooperative relationships with the NPS Water 

Resources Division, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area resource management staff, and others in addressing water resource issues. 

 The NPS and the Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation Department will 

work together on a joint plan following the GMP that would go into detail about managing visitor experience and access in the adjoining canyons (see section entitled “Visitor Understanding – Backcountry Experience” for more information) 

 The Navajo Nation is seeking a rest area with ADOT within the right- ofway at Tsegi, featuring exhibits. The NPS is interested in participating in 

project planning to provide complementary services at this new facility and the NPS visitor center. 

FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS—FACILITIES Mission Goal: 

L. Safe, quality, sustainable facilities fulfill desired visitor experience and support maintenance and administration. 

Navajo National Monument would strive to incorporate the principles of sustainable design and development into all facilities. Sustainable practices minimize the short- and long- term environmental impacts of developments and other activities through resource conservation, recycling, waste minimization, and the use of energy efficient and ecologically responsible materials and techniques. The National Park Service’s Guiding Principles of Sustainable Design (1993) provides a basis for achieving sustainability in facility planning and design, emphasizes the importance of bio- diversity, and encourages responsible decisions. The guidebook articulates principles to be used in the design and management of visitor facilities that emphasize environmental sensitivity in construction, use of nontoxic materials, resource conservation, recycling, and integration 

of visitors with natural and cultural settiPark Service also reduces energy costs, e

conserves energy resources by using ene

cost effective technology. Energy efficieinto the decision- making process durinacquisition of structures. In response to public concern about the employee housing and the ongoing critihousing at remote locations such as NavMonument, the Department of Interior process in place, The National Parks HoAssessment. This process provides serviin analyzing the number of housing unitthe local market for housing, remotenes

employee residents to provide resource service, condition of existing housing, apartnerships. 

Major Laws, Regulations, 

• National Park Service Management Poli• Guiding Principles of Sustainable Design • Federal Employees and Facilities Act (5 • Office of Management and Budget Circu

A- 45 

• Department of Interior regulations • Government Furnished Housing Guide
THE PLAN 

46Actions: • Navajo National Monument would work with appropriate 

experts to make the monument’s facilities and programs sustainable. Value analysis and value engineering, including life cycle cost analysis, would be performed to examine energy, environmental, and economic implications of proposed development. In addition, facilities would be harmonious with monument resources, compatible with natural process, aesthetically pleasing, functional, and as accessible as possible to all segments of the population. 

• Develop architectural character guidelines for remodeled and 

new structures. 

• Support and encourage suppliers, permittees, and contractors to 

follow sustainable practices. 

• Address sustainable park and out of park practices (such as 

recycling) in interpretive programs. 

• Continue to work through the National Park Housing Needs 

Assessment Process to ensure safe, quality, cost- effective housing is provided when essential for accomplishment of park 

objectives. 

• Identify specific needs to accomplish GMP in “Alternatives” 

section of this plan. 

• Campground and Picnic Area 

 Maintain and improve existing facilities for accessibility. 

• Visitor Center. 

 Remodel visitor center (5,000 SF) with an emphasis on fostering 

interaction between visitors, interpreters, and partners, new exhibit and audio- visual program. 

• Front Country Trails. 

 Maintain existing trails, plus increase front country trails (to 4 

miles), add overlooks, wayside exhibits, benches, shade structures, and rest rooms.

• Backcountry Facilities. 

 Betatakin- maintain composting toilet, range

 Inscription House—add ranger station  Keet Seel- maintain ranger station, composti

campground (outside boundary) 

• Administrative Offices. 

 Reduce office space at headquarters for enla

new administration building (3,500SF). 

• Curatorial Workspace and Storage. 

 Construct curatorial storage (including temp

repatriation items) and workspace (1,500SF) administration building. 

• Maintenance and Utilities. 

 Fire truck storage (2,500 SF). 

 Shop bays (four).  Vehicle storage shelter (eight).  Back- up well.  Rehabilitate sewage system. 

• NPS Employee Housing. 

 Maintain existing housing, plus one new dup

structure and trailer pads for volunteer campor other partners. Also pursue agreements wshared housing for volunteers, interns, and p

• Estimated Design and Construction Costs

 Remodel/expand visitor center—$800,000 

 New visitor center exhibits/audio- visual—$1 New trails, front country and backcountry — New wayside exhibits—$110,000 - $140,000  New administration/curatorial building—$1, Employee housing—$700,000  Additional maintenance facilities—$900,000  Utility improvements—$350,000 - $900,000 

TOTAL NET (average) $6,100,00
How Development Costs Were Calculated For GMP

NET CONSTRUCTION FOR FACILITIES (buildings, roads, utilities, trails, etc.)

NET CONSTRUCTION FOR INTERPRETIVE MEDaudio-visual programs and equipment) 

Unit cost based on the National Park Service Cost Estimating Guide with Class C cost Data for New Construction, 2001 

• Location factors used 

 Intermountain Region X 1.0  Navajo National Monument X 1.05 

• General Conditions 5% • Contingencies 15% 

Estimated by National Park Service Harpers Ferry C

Net costs of development are shown in this plan and are inclusive of the factors above. For implementation, th

additional costs for construction supervision, construction contingencies, and various design services shown b

Additional Costs for Implementing Construction in the National Park Service 

(for facilities and interpretive media) 

GROSS CONSTRUCTION COST  Construction Supervision 8% (net)  Construction Contingencies 10% (net) TOTAL PROJECT COST  Pre-Design Services 5% (net)  Supplemental Services 2% (net)  Design Services 10% (net) 
THE PLAN 

48FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS—BOUNDARY MODIFICATIONS Mission Goal: 

M. An adequate land base and agreements ensure visitor access and administration. 

Actions: • Headquarters Unit. 

 Seek transfer of headquarters unit from Navajo Nation to NPS by 

purchase or exchange only with agreement and endorsement by Navajo Nation. If agreed to, legislation would be required for authorizing the addition. If it is not transferred, the NPS, BIA, and Navajo Nation would review and revise Memorandum of Understanding with Navajo Nation regarding land at headquarters to reflect current interests and concerns. 

• Access over Tribal Land. 

Develop agreements or conservation easements: 

 Betatakin—routes for visitors and administration.  Keet Seel—routes for visitors and administration, primitive campground, 

guided visitor staging area. 

 Inscription House—routes for visitors and administration, explore 

partnership with Navajo Park and Recreation Department to develop parking and access to Inscription House. 

• Resource Protection. 

 Seek agreements or conservation easements for protection of 

cultural resources on adjacent tribal lands and to provide a buffer to sensitive monument resources. 

FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS—STAFF Mission Goal: 

N. Recruit and retain local American Indian employees to provide broader perspectives on management and enrich visitor understanding. 

Actions: • Recruitment 

 Continue to recruit local employees and pro

to remain. When filling new additional positwith Hopi, San Juan Paiute, and Zuni tribal mstudent interns, partners, volunteers. 

• Staff Size. 

 16 permanent jobs, 15–17 seasonal jobs 

• Additional Staff Positions. 

 Law enforcement ranger 

 Administrative clerk  Seasonal interpretive rangers  Seasonal resource technicians  Seasonal maintenance worker 

• New Staff Positions. 

 Management assistant to develop partnershi

 Park resource manager  Natural resource specialist  Preservation specialist  Curator (shared position) 

• Estimated Annual Operating Cost. 

 $1,190,000 

Major Laws, Regulations, a

• National Parks and Recreation Act, Novem• Public Law 101- 628, Section 1216 (1990) 

• National Park Service Management Policies • 25 USC (Indians) • Special Legislation 
Summary of Impacts 

Navajo National Monument General Management Plan 

Impact Topic Impacts of the Plan 

Concept Manage the existing land base, to achieve the purposes of the monument, and look beyond the boundary t

through cooperation and partnerships. 

Cultural Resources General. All structures and archeological sites would have a long-term major beneficial impact resulting fro

stabilization and maintenance (except to some American Indian tribes), and a better understanding of resoAdditional benefits from the understanding, support, and cooperative activities with neighbors and partnersModerate adverse long-term impacts could result from natural rockfall within the alcove. Moderate adverse caused by raptors and rodents. Minor adverse long-term impacts may result from vibrations from traffic and 

rock, air pollutants (acid rain on pictographs, petroglyphs, and inscriptions), and research activities. 

Betatakin. A minor beneficial impact results from frequent year-round ranger protection from vandalism. 

More visitors on the trail to Betatakin Canyon could result in long-term adverse impacts on archeological sit

on Navajo Nation land. This would be mitigated by rerouting segments of the trail and keeping visitors unde

ranger or tour guide. The net effect would be minor impacts to archeological resources. 

Keet Seel. A beneficial moderate long-term impact would result from greater protection from vandalism thro

season of ranger protection and through agreements with neighbors and tribes. Major long-term adverse impacts could result from erosion of archeological sites in the canyon bottom. Mod

impacts to village structures would be caused by continued visitor foot traffic, and to archeological sites from 

long-term adverse impacts to ancient structures may result from occasional vandalism. Potential minor to moderate long-term adverse impacts could occur to archeological sites at the campgroun

Greater control of grazing through communication with tribes, consultation and partnerships would have a marcheological resources. 

Inscription House. Beneficial long-term major impacts would result from continuing to keep visitors out of 

resources from vandalism from increased NPS ranger patrol, and through agreements with neighbors and tMajor long-term adverse impacts would be caused to archeological sites by erosion, but impacts from livesreduced by NPS actions and consultation and partnerships. Greater control of grazing through communication with tribes, consultation, and partnerships would have marcheological resources. 

Headquarters Unit. An archeological survey to determine the extent and location of sites on the rim for fur

moderate, beneficial long-term impact. More trails and structures on the rim would have both direct and ind

impacts on archeological sites. The effect would be minor because it would be mitigated by locating trails a

sensitive areas, and by improving visitor understanding and protection of resources. Adaptive reuse of historic structures would have a moderate beneficial impact. 

Museum Collection. There would be beneficial major long-term impacts from consolidating most of the co

There would be beneficial moderate long-term effects to artifacts from adequate on-site storage, lab, and st
THE PLAN 

50

Impact Topic Impacts of the Plan Ethnographic Resources Moderate to major adverse impacts from routine stabilization, visitor access to the dwellings, and intrusion 

uncontrolled visitor access and vandalism would continue. Impacts would be mitigated by additional moder

improved resource understanding and management from establishment of tribal consultation committee, anresources. There would be moderate short-term adverse impacts to tribal access and cultural uses from extending the 

more daily tours to Betatakin. This would be mitigated through increased consultation and careful schedulinshort-term adverse effects to piňon nut collectors as a result of additional trails and visitors on the rim. 

There would be a moderate to major beneficial long-term effect from expanded and direct tribal participatio

ethnographic resources and the resulting greater understanding on the part of visitors and American Indian 

Natural Resources Water Resources, Wetlands, and Floodplains. Trampling, urine, and fecal matter from livestock grazing 

land would cause long-term, moderate to major adverse effects on stream quality at Keet Seel and Inscript

opportunities to mitigate impacts of grazing and trampling, vehicles, and horses through better consultation 

agreements, and partnerships. There would be increased short-term moderate adverse impacts from additional construction. Minor to moderate adverse long-term regional impacts of a declining water table would continue, largely frophenomenon. Erosion and arroyo cutting at Keet Seel and Inscription House would cause long-term moderof sedimentation in streams. There would be local, minor, short-term adverse effects on water quality and wetlands from mesa-top runofsprings in Betatakin would realize a beneficial impact from closure of cross-canyon trail. There would be m

effects from erosion and sedimentation from construction. Increasing the number of visitors into Betatakin, House would result in an adverse, short-term, minor impact. Vegetation and Wildlife. Moderate, long term beneficial impacts from fuel reduction and integrated pest m

Livestock grazing and trampling would continue to have a moderate, long-term adverse impact on plants anadverse impacts on wildlife at Keet Seel and Inscription House. All sites would have continuing moderate, l

vegetation from invading exotic plants. Vehicle use and horse use in the adjacent canyons would have modeffects on vegetation and wildlife. There would be opportunities to mitigate these impacts through through agreements, partnerships, and encouraging the use of weed-free hay. Fuel reduction and integrated pest management activities would have minor, short-term adverse effects, bu

would be moderate and beneficial. An increase in the number of visitors to Betatakin Canyon, their presence for a longer period of the day and could result in minor adverse short-term impacts from trampling of vegetation and disruption of wildlife. This controlling visitors on completely guided tours. Construction at the headquarters area would have short-term, local moderate adverse effects on vegetation

adverse effects on wildlife. Additional well-defined trails would have a beneficial impact of keeping visitors from wildlife. Construction of the primitive campground at Keet Seel would have minor short-term adverse ewildlife. Major beneficial long-term impact from increased staff to monitor and protect resources. Moderate beneficial long-term impact from greater opportunity to educate the public on natural resource iss

better protect them. 
Impact Topic Impacts of the Plan 

Soils. Erosion from livestock grazing and trampling, hiking, horses, and motorized vehicles would cause lo

to microbiotic crusts at Betatakin, and moderate long-term adverse effects at Keet Seel and Inscription Houopportunities to mitigate the impacts of livestock grazing and trampling, horses, and vehicles through consu

partnerships. Fuel reduction actions and construction would cause local, minor, short-term adverse effects 

There would be additional adverse short-term moderate impacts to the headquarters unit soils from more c

trails at headquarters and a primitive campground at Keet Seel, and indirect long-term moderate impact to 

shortcuts. There would be a moderate, beneficial long-term impact to soils as a result of more people stayin

better patrolled trails. Threatened and Endangered Species. Navajo sedge would continue to have moderate, long-term adversgrazing and trampling outside the boundary. Minor and short-term adverse effects to alcove bog orchids in the monument would continue to occur from 

Mitigation measures would be undertaken. Activities on adjacent land and outside grazing and trampling would have minor to moderate short-term adv

spotted owl. The increase in visitors to Betatakin, increase in the daily time period people would be in the canyon, and th

continued grazing near Keet Seel and potential relocation of the campground and activities on adjacent lan

possibly long-term adverse effect on the Mexican spotted owl. Mitigation of impacts to owls from visitors would be accomplished through consultation and scheduling pote

outside of breeding season. A major long-term beneficial impact would be the mitigation of impacts to species of concern from grazing 

agreements, partnerships, consultation, and public education. For any proposed or on-going projects or activities that have minor or moderate adverse effects on listed sp

NPS will consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

Visitor Understanding and Experience

There would be moderate, long-term, beneficial effects from a longer visitor season to Betatakin and Keet S

Betatakin and Inscription House, enhanced exhibits and interpretation, greater opportunities for people with 

meet visitor needs, and more interaction between visitors and local people at Inscription House and becausof compatible Indian-based tourist services adjacent to the monument. There would be short-term minor adverse effects from construction projects. There would be a long-term, beneficial minor effect from reducing local traffic from the parking area when B

Road. 

Remoteness Natural Soundscapes. Local short-term minor adverse impacts would continue at the headquarters area (

Canyon) from aircraft, traffic in the headquarters area parking lot, NPS maintenance activities, and visitor vvoices on trails and into Betatakin Canyon would increase, but the effects would still be minor, short-term aA beneficial, minor effect would be that more visitors would have the opportunity to experience the natural s

to Betatakin. There would be short-term moderate adverse impacts from construction. Future relocation of the Shonto R

traffic noise in the monument.There would be short-term, moderate adverse effects of noise in the backcountry from activities (especially 
THE PLAN 

52

Impact Topic Impacts of the Plan 

There would be opportunities for mitigation through tribal consultation, agreements, and partnerships. Natural Lightscapes. NPS and local residences have a minor, long-term, local adverse effect. This could b

directed lighting fixtures. Local traffic through the headquarters unit has some minor, short-term adverse ef

be mitigated when the BIA relocates the Shonto Road out of the monument. Potential development along timmediately adjacent to the park would have moderate long-term adverse effects on natural lightscapes. T

Scenic Vistas. Existing park development and additional construction at headquarters, as well as scattered 

hogan at Keet Seel and future ranger station at Inscription House have minor, local, long-term adverse imp

undeveloped character of the landscape. Mitigation would include keeping the scale small, locating structu

selecting materials and colors that blend with the landscape. Potential future development along the entrance road or on adjacent land would have a moderate to major 

the remote, undeveloped landscape. Impacts could be mitigated by working with tribes and developing agr

minimize visual impacts to scenic vistas. 

Socio-Economy There would be beneficial, local, moderate long-term effects of 16 permanent jobs and 15 - 17 seasonal job

spending at local businesses. There would be moderate, short-term local beneficial effects from constructioShonto Road relocation. There would be a local beneficial minor effect if the campground adjacent to the h

managed. Tourism would have a beneficial, moderate, long-term effect locally and regionally. There would also be visproviding a beneficial impact to local markets. There would be additional moderate beneficial long-term effeencouraging complementary businesses outside of the park. NPS ownership of the land at headquarters would have a moderate long-term adverse effect on the Navajo Projections of Money Generation Model—multiplier effect of visitor spending on the local economy: • Sales—$3,000,000 • Personal income—$1,000,000 • Jobs—86 

• Value added—$1,600,000

Monument Operations There would be beneficial, long-term moderate to major effects from improved housing and office space tha

rehabilitated infrastructure, updated computer and communication systems, adequate operational funding, Partnerships would have a beneficial, moderate, long-term effect on police and fire protection, as well as asresource protection. A volunteer in the campground would have minor, beneficial effects. There would be moderate to major beneficial long-term effects from obtaining the land base of the monume
• • • • • • •• •• ••• • • 
APPENDIX A: LEGISLATION 

54
• • • • • • •• •• ••• • • • • • • • • • •• • •• • • • • 

• 

Between the Navajo Tribe, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and N

Relating to the Recreational Development of the Navajo N
APPENDIX B: MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT 

56
• • • • • • •• •• ••• • • • ••• • • • • • •• • • • • • •• • •
APPENDIX C: TSEGI CANYON NAVAJO TRIBAL PARK 

58
NPS D-44