Keywords
National Park Service, NPS, privatization conservation, concessions
Abstract
Since its inception, the privatization of the National Park Service has been a concern amongst conservationists. Recently, the topic gained more attention as the Trump Administration advocated for privatizing certain aspects of the parks. The dual purpose of the National Park Service, that of conservation and recreational efforts, has created conflict throughout the years. This Comment argues that Congress should update how the National Park Service manages concessioners. Full privatization is not needed, nor do private companies need to be kicked out of the parks. Part II of this Comment will present a history of the National Park Service, focusing on the history of concessions in the parks. Part III will review the history of congressional action on concessions management and examine the current contract structure. Part III will also look at more recent concerns from current concessioners to paint a picture of the issues plaguing the National Park Service’s partners. Part IV will discuss necessary updates to concessions management legislation and review successful business practices from prominent private corporations to strengthen concessions management.
Recommended Citation
Emily H. Rector,
Hiding in Plain Sight: How Corporations Can Save the National Park Service,
76 Ark. L. Rev.
(2024).
https://doi.org/10.54119/alr.ukxv5042
Available at:
https://scholarworks.uark.edu/alr/vol76/iss4/6
Included in
Environmental Law Commons, Other Law Commons, Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration Commons