Fees to Increase on the Manti La Sal National Forest
Beginning this year, visitors to the Manti-La Sal National Forest will see an increase in usage-fees at 30 developed campgrounds following regional approval of a request submitted last year by the forest.
“We have determined that it is necessary to raise fees at some of our campgrounds,” said Ryan Nehl, Manti-La Sal Forest Supervisor. “This is not a decision that we take lightly; however, we feel that these increases are needed to sustain a quality experience for our forest users.”
This is an excerpt from the Canyonlands Natural History Association’s Member Newsletter. To find out more about CNHA and how to get your own copy delivered, visit the Canyonlands Natural History Association website.
Spring Travel at Grand Canyon
As COVID-19 vaccinations roll out, Grand Canyon National Park is planning for an influx in visitation this spring and summer. If you are thinking about traveling, please keep these pro tips in mind for a safe and fun visit to the park:
- Stay on designated trails and walkways and always keep a safe distance from the edge of the rim. Do not climb over railings or barriers.
- Check the weather, check yourself! The South Rim sits at 7,000 feet above sea level and frequently experiences spring snowstorms. Visitors are encouraged to bring layers of clothing to adjust to changing weather conditions and take time to get used to the elevation by resting often and drinking plenty of fluids.
- Practice physical distancing with humans and wildlife. Never approach or feed any wildlife.
- Know where you can go with your pet and avoid leaving your furry friend in a car.
- Most importantly, mask up and recreate responsibly!
For more travel tips, visit the park’s website.
History Behind the Arts – Lyle Balenquah
A desire for personal adornment is a universal human attribute that has been a part of civilizations for countless generations. Through the “History Behind the Arts” series, you’ll meet Hopi jeweler Lyle Balenquah, who draws inspiration for his craft from his experience as an archaeologist in the American Southwest. Through his work, he can see how his ancestors used natural materials to express themselves through their artwork.
This episode premiered on the Facebook and YouTube channels for Grand Canyon Conservancy and Grand Canyon National Park. This is the second in an eight-week series of videos highlighting cultural demonstrators from Grand Canyon’s 11 traditionally associated tribes.
Since 2014, the Cultural Demonstration Program at Grand Canyon National Park has given members from each associated tribe a platform to share their traditional crafts with visitors.
This program has transformed Desert View into a place to celebrate, share, and learn about the deep cultural heritage of Grand Canyon. Since the program began, the park has hosted more than 175 artists who have interacted with thousands of park visitors.
This is an excerpt from the Grand Canyon Conservancy’s Member Newsletter. To find out more about GCC and how to get your own copy delivered, visit the Grand Canyon Conservancy website.
Western Night Sky Council Webinar Series
The Colorado Plateau is filled with dark skies, and many of our member parks and public lands are Dark Sky Parks. The vision for the Western Night Skies Council (WNSC) is to provide a platform for increasing dialogue, sharing resources and information, and providing mutual support for groups like PPCA in night sky conservation.
The WNSC is offering a series of quarterly webinars open to all interested participants. Webinar sessions provide opportunities for showcasing dark-sky advocacy work, knowledge and skill-sharing, interactive Q&As, network building, and other opportunities to learn and connect. Webinars are recorded and will eventually become part of a Western Night Skies video library.
The next webinar will be held on April 8, 2021, from 2:00 – 3:30 pm MDT, and it will be a panel discussion on Astrophotography: Discovering the Night. Visit their website to register for this free webinar.