Management

The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the national park system for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The National Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world.

We are the stewards of your park, charged with protecting its priceless resources. We enjoy sharing the park with you, so seek us out by stepping inside a visitor center, attending a ranger program, or following our social media channels. For a better understanding of how the National Park Service manages Yellowstone, read our Foundation Document, explore our staff and offices, or join our team.

 
People walk across a boardwalk leading across a hillside covered in steaming hot springs.

Strategic Priorities

The priorities of core, resources, experience, infrastructure, and partnerships will guide decision-making for the next five years.

A ranger riding a horse leads two other horses down a bare ground trail.

Our Staff and Offices

Explore our offices to gain a better understanding of how the National Park Service manages Yellowstone.

Two rangers on horseback salute during a ceremony.

Laws and Policies

Learn about the laws and policies that guide the National Park Service in preserving Yellowstone.

A closure sign warns people about the presence of bears on Blacktail Deer Plateau

Bear Management

Bear management has evolved since the park was established.

A group of bison cows and calves walking through a green meadow.

Bison Management

Review how the park maintains a wild, migratory bison population in a modern landscape.

A wildfire crew stands closely by a large pile of burning logs.

Fire Management

Balancing the benefits and threats of fire.

Young cutthroat trout swimming in shallow water

Native Fish Conservation Program

Learn how the Native Fish Conservation Program works to preserve Yellowstone Lake cutthroat trout and to restore fluvial trout populations.

Cars, and RVs line a road winding through a valley as drivers and passengers observe bison.

Visitor Use Management

Since 2008, annual visitation to Yellowstone has increased by over 40% with about 70% of visitation occurring June through August.

Snowmobilers stop to take photos of Electric Peak at a Swan Lake Flats pull-out.

Winter Use Management

The final Rule authorizing oversnow-vehicle use in Yellowstone was published in the Federal Register on October 23, 2013.

 

Global Significance

Yellowstone has been designated by the United Nations as a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve.

Learn more

Last updated: November 4, 2019

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168

Phone:

307-344-7381

Contact Us