Technical Assistance Case Study

Zion National Park used the Technical Assistance Program to develop three different wayside exhibits for their Emerald Pools Trail. One of the three exhibits submitted for technical assistance was the Rockfalls exhibit, which interprets the story of canyon widening.

Zion National Park Overlook Exhibit

The Rockfalls Exhibit

Zion National Park used the Technical Assistance Program to develop three different wayside exhibits for their Emerald Pools Trail. The Emerald Pools Trail, one of the park’s most popular trails, offers a variety of hiking options. Along the trail are panoramic views of Zion Canyon, which provide a backdrop perfect for interpreting many of the park’s themes. One of the three exhibits submitted for technical assistance was the Rockfalls exhibit, which interprets the story of canyon widening.

The Park Submits the Request

With guidance from the Technical Assistance Program manager, the park submitted a memorandum requesting assistance along with a resource package for each exhibit.

The Resource Package

The resource package prepared for the Rockfalls exhibit panel included all items needed to develop a successful wayside exhibit.

1. Draft text was furnished both in hard copy and digitally. Digital text is essential for editing and for efficient wayside design development.
2. Photographic images (in this case 35mm slides) were furnished for consideration. All were clearly labeled. Photographs of the exhibit location and views from the location were included for general planning and design reference.
3. A sketchy layout was submitted showing the interpretive intent of the panel. The layout contained text, a canyon cross-section diagram, and a series of photos (taken by a park visitor in the right place at the right time), capturing a rockfall event over a three-minute period.

Wayside Development

A designer and a planner from Harpers Ferry Center discussed the park ideas put forth in the resource package. Text was edited and sharpened. The best aspects of the park’s ideas were developed and incorporated into a digital design layout. The idea of a large background photo was introduced to provide visitor focus on the actual rockfall location. The dramatic rockfall sequence photos were featured to a greater extent than originally suggested by the park staff. The proposed idea of including a geologic cross section was dropped because it proved extraneous.

The park then reviewed the layout and made text-editing suggestions. They were pleased with the interpretive development of the Rockfalls panel and approved the design for fabrication.

Conclusion

Through this cooperative team effort between Zion National Park Harpers Ferry Center, quality exhibits were developed and produced. The exhibits achieved the park’s interpretive goals and are consistent with NPS design standards. To expedite low-cost exhibit rehab or replacement in the future, the digital design files are maintained at Harpers Ferry Center.

See also the Technical Assistance Case Study of the Zion National Park Trailhead Exhibit »

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Wayside Exhibits »

RELATED LINKS:

Zion National Park Trailhead Exhibit »

PDF DOCUMENTS:

Printable Zion National Park Overlook Exhibit »

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