Jemez Springs, NM - The National Park Service wants to hear from the public as it considers a zoning approach to help guide future planning and management decisions at Valles Caldera National Preserve.
"Public and tribal feedback and engagement are important at this early phase and will help guide how we define and plan future management at Valles Caldera National Preserve," said Superintendent Jorge Silva-Bañuelos. "Our goal is to preserve and protect fundamental resources and values within the park while enhancing sustainable visitor access, experiences, and opportunities."
Valles Caldera National Preserve created three draft zoning options to guide future planning and management. Management zoning aims to balance how the park supports visitor services and recreational opportunities within the stewardship of the special natural and cultural resources and values that bring people to experience the park.
Zoning describes the desired future resource conditions and visitor experiences to be reached and maintained in geographically distinct areas of a park. It includes considering the types of management activities and visitor uses, and general types and levels of development that are appropriate and compatible in a given area. Zoning does not propose specific developments; rather, it is used to guide future planning and decision-making.
The park is planning two virtual townhall meetings on April 20 at 1:00 p.m. MT and April 22 at 5:30 p.m. MT to give the public a chance to ask questions and learn more. Additional information on this zoning effort, and links to the public meetings can be access on the project website.
The comment period runs April 9 - May 5. The public can submit their thoughts through the project website.
About Valles Caldera National Preserve
About 1.25 million years ago, a spectacular volcanic eruption created the 13-mile wide circular depression now known as Valles Caldera. The preserve is known for its huge mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. The area also preserves the homeland of ancestral native peoples and embraces a rich ranching history.
About the National Park Service
More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's 420 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit us on our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube.
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Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
