(UNEDITED)My letter published on February 21 titled "Lawsuit keeps Boy Scouts out of parks" expressed concern over a National Park Service plan that would have eliminated most Yellowstone back country hiking by Boy Scouts attending Camp Loll.
Many wrote letters to their congressional delegation and to Yellowstone Park officials. I understand that Congressman Bishop became involved, as did staffers from the offices of Senators Hatch and Bennett.
As a result, representatives from Yellowstone and the Boy Scouts recently met in a collaborative effort. Together they developed a plan to conserve the park's back country resources while allowing appropriate access to Scouts from Camp Loll.
Misconceptions were cleared up on both sides. The contention that the action was caused by a lawsuit by environmental activists turned out to be inaccurate. Assessments based on Scout actions of decades ago were updated.
The result is a win-win situation. The back country environment will be preserved for future generations, usage experience will be improved for all users of the area, and Scouts attending Camp Loll will experience an improved Scout camping program.
Thanks to all that got involved. You have helped to ensure that many will experience of one of our nation's greatest natural wonders for years to come.
Scott Hinrichs
North Ogden
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