November 29th, 2005 - WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Craig Thomas will travel to the Grand Canyon National Park from Nov. 30 through Dec. 3 to learn about the issues facing the park including those related to high rates of visitation, concessions, recreation fees, transportation, visitor services, and maintenance backlog.
“It’s a great chance to see the Grand Canyon first hand and get a feel for the challenges facing park managers along the Colorado River,” Thomas said.
“One major issue unique to Grand Canyon is the Colorado River recreation management plan. Demand for rafting is heavy in the park and the number of permits available each year is limited. It’s interesting to see how different managers approach the issues that face their park,” Thomas said.
As Chairman of the National Park Subcommittee, Thomas makes regular visits to national park sites around the country.
Thomas’ Itinerary:
Nov. 30
6 p.m., arrive in Phoenix, drive to Grand Canyon for orientation at the South Rim, dinner at El Tovar Hotel
Dec. 1
9 a.m., driving tour of Grand Canyon Village;
10 a.m., helicopter tour from South Rim to North Rim of the park
10:30 a.m., tour of North Rim with North Rim Unit Manager Phil Walker and Superintendent Joe Alston
1:30 p.m., arrive at Phantom Ranch for tour and hike with Alston. Overnight at Phantom Ranch, the historic, camp-like respite built in 1922, which is a popular exchange location for boaters
Dec. 2
5:30 a.m., breakfast at Phantom Ranch;
10 a.m. flight to Marble Canyon to meet Superintendent of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Kitty Roberts; noon, lunch at Marble Canyon Lodge;
2:15 p.m. travel to Albright Training Center to meet with Costa Dillon, Superintendent for Albright Training Center
Dec. 3
7:30 a.m., finish tour of Grand Canyon,
9 a.m., travel to Tucson,
10:30 a.m., meeting with Palma Wilson, Superintendent of Flagstaff Area Parks
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