The National Park Service should toughen regulations on rock climbing on southeast Utah's arches and natural bridges. Failure to set new rules to deal with the increased popularity of climbing may one day damage the beautiful natural resources in the area.
The feds are revisting rules at Arches National Park and accepting comments on a new Climbing and Canyoneering Management Plan until Aug. 10. The new rules will offer rangers more authority to place limits on certain activities, such as climbing Delicate Arch. Many may recall the controversial solo climb of Delicate Arch made in 2006 by climber Dean Potter.
The fact is climbing areas such as Delicate Arch is more fad than sport. These natural resources are not particularly difficult to climb. Many of today's climbers are as likely to climb for the publicity as they are for the sheer respect of the terrain. There are areas in southeast Utah that could be put off-limits to climbers without denying recreationists the chance to sample the terrain.
Another concern that the new rules can address is the impact on the terrain of increased canyoneering in the Arches area. In order to travel through challenging areas of canyons, cross country hikers need climbing gear to go up and down. It's important to make sure these activities do not damage the area's natural resources.
Currently, clear rock climbing is banned on certain natural bridges or arches. Also, "slacklining," a dangerous technique where climbers walk on connected rope, is also banned. The new rules will consider the consequences of increased recreational use of the area, including commercial travel groups and addresses group size limits. Also, permit fees, increased climber education and equipment use in the area are covered in the plan.
There's no doubt that canyoneering and rock climbing are healthy, fun activities that provide recreationists an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Utah. It's important to make sure that these Utah resources will be around for as long as possible. To comment on the plan, go here
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