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Long-Range Interpretive Plan
Sitka National Historical Park » Long-Range Interpretive Plan » Document List
The last long-range interpretive plan (LRIP) for Sitka was completed in September 2000. This plan was tied directly to the general management plan (GMP) and a gateway community plan. Since these plans were completed, many changes have occurred within the community and in visitation use patterns and levels, and some earlier issues were never resolved. In addition, new partnerships with Russia have opened doors to knowledge and resources previously unavailable.
Some of the main issues include:
- Exhibits in the visitor center and Russian Bishop's House are in need of upgrading, and
consideration needs to be given to interpretation for children and other underserved audiences.
- Both park units need to introduce visitors to the key resources of the whole park.
- Visitor circulation at both park units needs to be improved.
- Historic furnishings in the Russian Bishop's House require more attention.
- Wayside exhibits are outdated and require a comprehensive evaluation.
- The park education program needs physical space as well as more curriculum-based programming.
- Improvements are needed to reach visitors prior to and upon their arrival.
This LRIP will be a component of the park's Comprehensive Interpretive Plan (CIP) as directed
by National Park Service Director's Orders-6. This plan will provide long-term direction and
focus for the interpretive program for the Sitka National Historical Park. Together with the park produced annual interpretive plan and the interpretive database, it will form a complete CIP. The LRIP will describe the park's primary interpretive themes and visitor experiences, and
recommend ways to facilitate those experiences through facility design, interpretive/informational media, personal services programs, and partnership endeavors.
Acting Chief Ranger
Sitka National Historical Park
106 Metlakatla St.
Sitka, AK 99835
(907) 747-0120
jacqueline_ashwell@nps.gov
Some of the main issues include:
- Exhibits in the visitor center and Russian Bishop's House are in need of upgrading, and
consideration needs to be given to interpretation for children and other underserved audiences.
- Both park units need to introduce visitors to the key resources of the whole park.
- Visitor circulation at both park units needs to be improved.
- Historic furnishings in the Russian Bishop's House require more attention.
- Wayside exhibits are outdated and require a comprehensive evaluation.
- The park education program needs physical space as well as more curriculum-based programming.
- Improvements are needed to reach visitors prior to and upon their arrival.
This LRIP will be a component of the park's Comprehensive Interpretive Plan (CIP) as directed
by National Park Service Director's Orders-6. This plan will provide long-term direction and
focus for the interpretive program for the Sitka National Historical Park. Together with the park produced annual interpretive plan and the interpretive database, it will form a complete CIP. The LRIP will describe the park's primary interpretive themes and visitor experiences, and
recommend ways to facilitate those experiences through facility design, interpretive/informational media, personal services programs, and partnership endeavors.
Contact Information
Jacqueline AshwellActing Chief Ranger
Sitka National Historical Park
106 Metlakatla St.
Sitka, AK 99835
(907) 747-0120
jacqueline_ashwell@nps.gov