The National Park Service is considering four new preliminary plans for management of Pinnacles National Monument.
According to an NPS publication released on the subject, the general management plan will shape the direction the park takes in over the next 15 to 20 years.
Alternative A is the current management system, which includes raptor monitoring and limited education based on available funding.
Alternative B is research and learning based. That includes a high degree of protection to natural resources and building of educational facilities.
Alternative C calls for a back-country experience. This option includes a higher degree of restoration to natural functions and removal of unnecessary facilities.
Alternative D is an expanded visitor experience. Activities at the park would be broadened, and new interpretation and education facilities would be built on both west and east sides of the monument.
How to get involved:
If you would like to share you thoughts on Pinnacles' General Management Plan, there are a few different ways to do so. You can visit the NPS Web site and fill out the comment form at www.nps.gov/pinn/parkmgmt/planning.htm. You can send an e-mail to pinn_gmp@nps.gov. And you can also sign up for the E-Newsletter at the Web site above. Comments sent via mail will be accepted as well. The address is General Management Plan Team, Pinnacles National Monument, 5000 Highway 146, Paicines, CA 95043. Please send comments by October 31, 2008.
The following are open houses scheduled for the update:
Jefferson School, Meeting Hall
Monday, Aug. 25
7-9 p.m.
221 Old Hernandez Road
Paicines
San Benito County Library
Tuesday, Aug. 26
4-6 p.m.
470 Fifth St.
Hollister
Soledad High School, Mission Room
Wednesday, Aug. 27
6-8 p.m.
425 Gabilan Drive
Soledad
Colin McConville Colin McConville is a reporter with the Hollister Free Lance. You can reach him by email or at (831) 637-5566.
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