The Evolution of Public Lands Nonprofits: Guiding the Visitor Experience Beyond Park Boundaries
Time: Tuesday, March 3, 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Location: Grand Ballroom, Salons D/E
Presented by:
Robert Ratcliffe, Community Planner, National Park Service
Donald Leadbetter, Tourism Program Manager, National Park Service
Mark Preiss, Director, Zion National Park Forever Project
Katie Nyberg, Executive Director, Mississippi Park Connection
Jim Cook, Executive Director, Western National Parks Association
As federal agencies and public land managers welcome and manage a changing and growing influx of visitors, the role of cooperating associations and friends groups has evolved to help meet critical needs beyond park boundaries. From day-to-day operations like selling park passes to visionary efforts like establishing a new gateway to an iconic park, National Park Service recreation and tourism leaders, alongside partners in the field, will discuss this important emerging role and offer examples.
Target Audiences: Agency Management, Executive Directors / CEOs, Agency Field Staff
Learning Level: Intermediate (201 / 301 level)