Changes to National Parks

These are the type of blogs I have available for an occasional post when either nothing is going on or too much is going on and I don't have time. In this case ... a lot has been going on and I'm just too pooped to blog.

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Many campers and RV’ers are asked to fill out comment cards when leaving National Parks, COEs and other public campgrounds. These comment cards are used to find out about hazards and improvements to the area. The idea is to leave nature to enjoy but clean up and improve areas where possible.

The U.S. Forest Service also ask those using their facilities to leave comments. The little cards and pencils are available. It’s kind of like asking a restaurant patron to comment if the bathroom needs cleaning. The problem with comment cards is that some folks want nature improved in a way that most others don’t.

The following are just a few examples of actual comments and future improvements suggested by users in the National Park System. It’s another one of those Can You Believe it? Or, aren’t you glad they don’t take all the suggestions to heart?

• “A small deer came into my camp and stole my bag of pickles. Is there a way I can get reimbursed? Please call.”

• “Escalators would help on steep uphill sections.”

• “Instead of a permit system or regulations, the Forest Service needs to reduce worldwide population growth to limit the number of visitors to wilderness.”
• “Trails need to be wider so people can walk while holding hands.”
• “Ban walking sticks in wilderness. Hikers that use walking sticks are more likely to chase animals.”
• “All the mile markers are missing this year.”
• “Found a smoldering cigarette left by a horse.”
• “Trails need to be reconstructed. Please avoid building trails that go uphill.”
• “Too many bugs and leeches and spiders and spider webs. Please spray the wilderness to rid the area of these pests.”
• “Please pave the trails so they can be plowed of snow in the winter.”
• “Chair lifts need to be in some places so that we can get to wonderful views without having to hike to them.”
• “The coyotes made too much noise last night and kept me awake. Please eradicate these annoying animals.”
• “Reflectors need to be placed on trees every 50 feet so people can hike at night with flashlights.”
• “Need more signs to keep area pristine.”
• “A McDonald’s would be nice at the trail head.”
• “The places where trails do not exist are not well marked.”
• “Too many rocks in the mountains.”