Working with Public Land Managers
Whether federal, county, state, or municipal, the job of a public land manger is a tough juggling act. Because public lands serve a wide spectrum of user groups, land managers are constantly working to balance the needs of visitors with the mission of their land agency and protection of resources—all with limited budget and staff.
We encourage climbing advocates to take the time to understand the mission and culture of the land agency before engaging on an issue. Start by researching the staff structure and identifying any relevant land management documents for the area and whether they are currently being revised. Having this background information will help you understand relevant rules and regulations and allow you to talk to land managers in their language.
Keep in mind that public land managers hear complaints and criticisms every day. It is important to develop a rapport with the land manager while clearly articulating a problematic issue. Building a relationship is the best way to earn trust, and a trusting land manager will listen to climber concerns and be more inclined to help solve climber problems.
And remember, a successful advocate provides solutions and recommendations that are realistic within the confines of an agency’s bureaucracy. This is where your research comes in.
Resource Center
An overview providing the basics for setting up a recreational lease with a landowner or manager.
A record of Access Fund's advocacy statements, by state, for climbing areas on public lands. These documents can be useful to advocates looking to develop their own comment letters.
The Access Fund's guide to climbing issues and the development of a climbing management plan.
Access Fund's policy position regarding the placement, maintenance, and management of fixed anchors for technical climbing. This policy was developed in partnership with the American Alpine Club.
A new study led by Eastern Kentucky University finds rock climbers have a significant economic impact in the Red River Gorge region of southeastern Kentucky. The study indicates climbers are a substantial economic force, contributing $3.6 million annually. It also indicates that climber spending directly creates jobs and contributes to
This study examined the economic impact, use patterns, Leave No Trace knowledge, and demographics of climbers visiting Bishop, California to engage in any type of rock climbing.
Access Fund has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Park Service that outlines a cooperative relationship between climbers and NPS land managers. Climbing advocates can use this MOU to gain a seat at the table and facilitate a positive working relationship with NPS land managers.
Access Fund has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Bureau of Land Management that outlines a cooperative relationship between climbers and BLM land managers. Climbing advocates can use this MOU to gain a seat at the table and facilitate a positive working relationship with BLM land managers.
Access Fund has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the US Forest Service that outlines a cooperative relationship between climbers and USFS land managers. Climbing advocates can use this MOU to gain a seat at the table and facilitate a positive working relationship with USFS land managers.
Access Fund has a Master Challenge Cost Share agreement with the US Forest Service that outlines and streamlines a cooperative relationship between climbers and USFS land managers. Climbing advocates can use this Master Agreement to facilitate financial agreements where resources can be shared for on-the-ground type implementation projects and initiatives