The tools were there. The expertise was there. The partners had rolled up their sleeves and were sincere in their efforts. Instead, the agency grandstanded, promoting a blatantly political option that's inflammatory and divisive. As a political statement, the winter recreation plan may score some points with radical environmentalists, but as a blueprint for winter recreation management, the plan is not a professional or workable document.
Conservationists applaud the plan.
It's clear that Americans want places where they can find peace and quiet, undisturbed wildlife and pure air, not more pollution and stress from thousands of snowmobiles. This plan reverses that. It restores Yellowstone, and it restores the standard we set for our national parks. The National Parks Conservation Association, The Wilderness Society and Bluewater Network are among many environmental groups that support the NPS plan. The Park Service is also providing ample time for local business owners and entrepreneurs to make a successful transition to the new system of access.