Plan Process

The Backcountry and Wilderness Stewardship Plan would specify management options for the designated and eligible wilderness areas of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve (WRST). It would help park staff guide programs and set priorities for resources stewardship and science, visitor use, facilities and operations for specific areas of the WRST backcountry and wilderness for the next 20 years. The plan would: 1) identify desired future conditions; 2) provide comprehensive management prescriptions; 3) develop specific management indicators and standards to protect wilderness character and protect opportunities for high quality visitor experiences; and 4) identify management tools to address recreational and commercial uses and provide for customary and traditional subsistence activities. A Backcountry and Wilderness Stewardship Plan would address complex issues related to visitor use, including backcountry cabin use and management, remote airstrips management, necessary and appropriate commercial services, and allowable and appropriate motorized use among other topics.