(UNEDITED)Boy Scouts are Americans too, but some activists and government bureaucrats seem to think otherwise.
I first hiked in the back country of Yellowstone National Park as a 12-year-old boy from Camp Loll, which is near the park's southern border. Like countless others, I probably would never have experienced the wonders of this treasured environment except for my involvement in the Boy Scouts.
I was looking forward to hiking to Union Falls with my son and his troop this summer. Now, unless something changes, my son and thousands of other American youth will be barred from visiting this wilderness simply because they are Boy Scouts.
As the result of a Sierra Club lawsuit, the Boy Scouts and other nonprofit groups will now be at the mercy of arbitrary severe restrictions developed by the park's Concessions Management Division (CMD) with no warning to or input from affected groups.
Our nation's national parks are trusts established for all Americans. They are not exclusive playgrounds for elitists. Isn't it odd that some that call for our youth to get in touch with nature actively work to keep them out of it?
Only public outcry can stop this tragedy. Those that care will contact their senators, congressman, park superintendent, and CMD chief with a strong (but courteous) voice. Addresses and details are at the Camp Loll Director's post at http://attheagora.blogspot.com/2010/02/save-camp-loll-save-wilderness.html.
If it can happen to the Boy Scouts, who will it happen to next?
Scott Hinrichs
North Ogden
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