News Release

Channel Islands Encourages Public Engagement for Proposed Backcountry and Wilderness Management Plan

©Tim Hauf, timhaufphotography.com

News Release Date: April 19, 2021

Contact: Lauren Boross, 805-658-5727

On April 26, the National Park Service (NPS) will begin seeking public input on the Channel Islands National Park Backcountry and Wilderness Management Plan (BWMP). The 30-day input period begins April 26, 2021 and ends on May 26, 2021.  

The NPS is initiating development of a BWMP to address various management issues within proposed wilderness, proposed potential wilderness, and backcountry areas of the park. The plan will help to identify concepts and provide a framework for managing and protecting wilderness character and backcountry areas while continuing to provide rich and meaningful visitor opportunities.   

Superintendent Ethan McKinley will facilitate two virtual public meetings on Wednesday, April 28 at 6:00 pm (tinyurl.com/7v8fhsvx) and Saturday, May 1 at 10:00 am (tinyurl.com/a9w7z9vf) to provide the public with an opportunity to learn about the planning process and provide input on preliminary options for future management.  

Written comments may be submitted via the following channels beginning April 26: 

• NPS Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) website (https://parkplanning.nps.gov/chis_bwmp) 

• If you do not have access to the internet, you may submit comments via U.S. mail to:  Channel Islands National Park, Attn: BWMP, 1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001 

After public input is reviewed and considered, the NPS will draft a plan and conduct environmental compliance. There will be an additional opportunity for public comment before the plan is implemented.