Cave Access & Permitting Strategy (CE)

El Malpais National Monument is planning to develop a Cave Access & Permitting Strategy and Environmental Assessment to guide how the lava tube caves in the monument may be accessed through a recreational permitting system. As part of this effort we are seeking input from the public about any concerns or interests they may have regarding cave management within the monument.

The monument's lava tube caves are a significant and sensitive resource, and traditionally one of the monument's main recreational attractions. The National Park Service seeks to balance the protection of these natural and cultural resources with the public's desire to experience and explore them. This planning process is a way to address these goals through engagement and communication with users and stakeholders.

We recognize that you may have an interest in the management of El Malpais National Monument and we want to include you in our planning efforts. To learn more, please visit the project website and use the online comment system found at:

http://parkplanning.nps.gov/cavepermits

If you have any questions or concerns about this planning process, please contact David Hays, Natural Resources Branch Chief, at 505-285-4641 ext. 26, or at david_hays@nps.gov.

Sincerely,

/s Kayci Cook Collins
Superintendent

Contact Information

David Hays
Natural Resources Branch Chief
El Malpais & El Morro National Monument
david_hays@nps.gov