Table of Contents

Management Policies

The Guide to Managing the National Park System

Underlying Principles

Introduction

Law, Policy, and Other Guidance

Hierarchy of Authorities

Policy Development

Compliance, Accountability, and Enforceability

The Directives System

Other Sources of Guidance

NPS Program Policies

 

1 The Foundation

1.1 The National Park Idea

1.2 The National Park System

1.3 Criteria for Inclusion

1.3.1 National Significance
1.3.2 Suitability
1.3.3 Feasibility
1.3.4 Direct NPS Management

1.4 Park Management

1.4.1 The Laws Generally Governing Park Management
1.4.2 “Impairment” and “Derogation”: One Standard
1.4.3 The NPS Obligation to Conserve and Provide for Enjoyment of Park Resources and Values
1.4.3.1 Park Purposes and Legislatively Authorized Uses
1.4.4 The Prohibition on Impairment of Park Resources and Values
1.4.5 What Constitutes Impairment of Park Resources and Values
1.4.6 What Constitutes Park Resources and Values
1.4.7 Decision-making Requirements to Identify and Avoid Impairments
1.4.7.1 Unacceptable Impacts
1.4.7.2 Improving Resource Conditions within the Parks

1.5 Appropriate Use of the Parks

1.6 Cooperative Conservation Beyond Park Boundaries

1.7 Civic Engagement

1.8 Environmental Leadership

1.9 Management Excellence

1.9.1
Human Resources
1.9.1.1 Career Development, Training, and Management
1.9.1.2 Succession Planning
1.9.1.3 Workforce Planning
1.9.1.4 Employee Safety and Health
1.9.1.5 Workforce Diversity
1.9.1.6 Volunteers in the Parks
1.9.2 Managing Information
1.9.2.1 Information Sharing
1.9.2.2 Proprietary Information
1.9.2.3 Information Confidentiality
1.9.3 Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities
1.9.4 Public Information and Media Relations
1.9.5 Management Accountability
1.9.5.1 Financial Sustainability
1.9.5.2 Facilities
1.9.5.3 Budget Performance and Accountability Programs

1.10 Partnerships

1.11 Relationship with American Indian Tribes

1.11.1 Government-to-Government Relationship
1.11.2 Consultation
1.11.3 Trust Resources
1.12 Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and Caribbean Islanders
1.13 An Enduring Message

Last updated: July 6, 2023