News Release

Glacier Bay Seeks Input on Draft Wilderness Management Plan

Scenic view from atop Excursion Ridge in Glacier Bay NP&P

NPS Photo / S. Tevebaugh

News Release Date: February 15, 2023

Contact: Sara Doyle, Outdoor Recreation Planner, 907-697-2675

BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA – Provide your comments and feedback on the Glacier Bay National Park draft Backcountry and Wilderness Management Plan and Environmental Assessment by March 17. This plan builds on the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve General Management Plan and provides new adaptive tools for current and future park managers to preserve the 2.6 million acres of designated wilderness within Glacier Bay National Park.

The draft plan includes general direction, strategies, and actions to help the National Park Service (NPS) successfully manage wilderness areas in the park, as well as a strategy to help NPS monitor and protect wilderness character over time.

“Thank you to those who have contributed to this shared vision for Glacier Bay wilderness stewardship since we began this process in 2020,” said Superintendent Philip Hooge. “We are pleased to release this revised plan that builds on what we’ve heard from you and incorporates feedback from Tribes representing the original people and stewards of Glacier Bay.”

To learn more about the plan components, including connections to Tlingit Homeland history and values, please visit the story map at: Glacier Bay National Park (arcgis.com).
 

Submit your comments:

Comments will be accepted until March 17 on the draft plan, supporting strategies, and an environmental analysis of the preferred alternative that incorporates public feedback from a July 2022 draft plan public review. You are encouraged to review the document and submit comments through the NPS PEPC website: go.nps.gov/GBwild.

You can also submit your comments by US mail: Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Attn. Backcountry and Wilderness Management Plan, PO Box 140, Gustavus, AK 99826.     

Attend a public meeting:  

The NPS is hosting two public meetings, one in Gustavus and one as a virtual event. The NPS will give initial presentation and answer questions. A court reporter will be available to take testimony. Comments will be accepted during the public meetings.  

Gustavus, AK Tuesday, February 21     5 to 6:30 p.m.     Gustavus Community Center     1295 Gustavus Rd

Virtual    Wednesday, February 22     5 to 6:30 p.m.     Teams Meeting, Register Online