Hearing Hearing Date: April 5, 2017 2:00 pm 2247 Rayburn HOB

Improving the Visitor Experience at National Parks

PURPOSE:

To examine how visitor services programs operate differently across the country.
To discuss whether the National Park Service (NPS) should implement some of the reforms that are driving an increase in visitation at other state and federal facilities.

BACKGROUND:

Private companies, known as concessioners, manage many visitor services at national parks, such as campgrounds, lodging, and food service.
The NPS concessions program is burdensome for companies to work under and limits the ability of parks and companies to provide new services.
In comparison, the U.S. Forest Service operates under a concessions program that provides latitude to enhance visitor experience. Additionally, state park services are proving to be a testing ground for new ideas and improvements.
The Committee previously examined this issue at a hearing in July 2015.

Witnesses and testimonies: Mr. Glenn Casamassa

Associate Deputy Chief, National Forest System, U.S. Forest Service
U.S. Department of Agriculture

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Ms. Linda Lanterman

Director of the Division of State Parks
State of Kansas

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Mr. Chris Edmonston

President
BoatU.S. Foundation

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Mr. Rick Cables

Vice President of Natural Resources and Conservation
Vail Resorts

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