Current Initiatives
The AMGA is actively working to shape a positive future for facilitated access in the United States. Here is an update of the projects the AMGA has been supporting this year. Below find other projects the Advocacy Program is engaged in.
Yosemite National Park
The AMGA is working with park officials to explore avenues to expand guided rock climbing opportunities in Yosemite.
Denali National Park & Preserve
The AMGA is supporting a park proposal to offer commercial use authorizations for single-trip, guided summit climbs of Denali.
Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park
The AMGA and eight local guide services are working with park officials to improve commercial use authorization stipulations and identify opportunities for increased access during off-peak times and in areas of lower visitation.
U.S. Forest Service Policy Work
The AMGA is engaged in the environmental analysis and decision-making reform process and is assisting with efforts to enhance awareness and understanding of the 2016 Chief’s Guidance on the Modernization of Special Uses.
U.S. Department of the Interior Policy Work
The AMGA is engaged with NPS and BLM officials as they establish directives to implement Secretarial Order 3366. The AMGA is also participating in a working group to establish best practices for the implementation of NPS Director’s Order 41 (appropriate management of fixed anchors in Wilderness).
Government Relations
The AMGA maintains relationships with lawmakers in Washington D.C. to assist in the creation and drafting of recreation legislation and to serve as a resource on matters related to facilitated access.
U.S. Forest Service Forest Plan Revisions
The AMGA is providing input on forest plan revisions at the Custer-Gallatin National Forest, the Chugach National Forest, and the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, Gunnison National Forest.
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Bureau of Land Management
The AMGA is actively working on an MOU with the BLM. This will enhance opportunities for the AMGA to communicate with BLM officials and facilitate work on mutually-beneficial projects (stewardship projects, planning efforts, visitor safety initiatives, etc.).
Member Education
The AMGA provides educational briefings for members and accredited businesses on current legislation related to facilitated access, land agency policy initiatives, and new access opportunities. The Advocacy Resources page includes information on the permitting processes of each agency, tips for applying, guidance on how to use the AMGA MOUs, and links to policy documents related to recreation permitting on public lands.
Stewardship Projects
The AMGA supports and promotes stewardship projects that conserve the climbing and skiing environment, improve visitor experiences, and strengthen relationships with land managers and the public. The AMGA is presently participating in the Liberty Bell Conservation Initiative at Washington Pass in Washington State.
IFMGA Reciprocity
The AMGA provides the IFMGA with regular updates on access developments and access opportunities in the United States.
Work with Partners
The AMGA continues to foster vibrant and productive partnerships with our friends in the outdoor industry. The AMGA is an active member of the Coalition for Outdoor Access and the NPS DO41 Coalition.
