While the purpose of today s hearing is to discuss issues associated with Glacier National Park, I must also point out that many of the issues I will describe confront, in different degrees, the 377 other units of the National Park System. Just as Glacier has a deferred maintenance listing that is extensive, so too do many other parks. But the growth in dollars doesn t tell the whole story. Our costs of doing business have also increased as a result of higher Federal pay and retirement costs, Park Police pension costs, higher rental costs for leased space and equipment. While this is by no means a comprehensive list, the simple fact is that while our budget has grown, so to have the demands on this and other parks as well.
Bats infest the rafters and fire detection-suppression systems only meet minimum codes.
The claim is equal to the cost of repairs needed for the entire road. Glacier has over ten sewage and wastewater treatment systems, most of which are antiquated and in need of substantial repair. For example, no system exists at Logan Pass. The park transports sewage by truck off the mountain for proper disposal three times a day. This caused a public safety hazard in Apgar Village, and had the potential of spilling raw effluent into a river protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.