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Big Bend National ParkVolcanic tuff near Castolon
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Big Bend National Park
Commercial Use Authorization
Thank you for your interest in obtaining a permit to operate commercial activities within Big Bend National Park / Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River.

These permits, known as a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA), are issued by the park Superintendent to permit certain commercial activities in National Park Service areas, including Big Bend National Park / Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River. Permits are required of all operators who provide any and all goods, activities, agreements or other services to the general public which take place, at least in part, in the park, uses park resources and are undertaken for or results in compensation, monetary gain, benefit or profit to an individual, organization or corporation, whether or not such entity is organized for purposes recognized as non-profit under local, state or federal law. This includes educational institutions.

We look upon our commercial operators as partners in managing the park and its resources. Your services and expertise allow many visitors to undertake activities that enhance their experience and enjoyment while they are at Big Bend. We look forward to working with you to provide quality experiences for park visitors.

If you have any questions concerning the Commercial Use Authorization program, please contact CUA Coordinator, Claudia Arnberger, at 432 477-1108.

 
Mexican family living at Glenn Springs, 1916  

Did You Know?
The population of the Big Bend prior to the establishment of the National Park in 1944 was approximately 155 people, evenly divided between hispanics and anglos. Most of the hispanic families lived along the river and practiced subsistence farming; the anglo families were mostly ranchers.
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Last Updated: April 24, 2008 at 15:44 EST