On Thursday, the Albuquerque Journal published an article in its “GO!” travel section that examined some “substantial operational differences” that could result for visitors to the Valles Caldera after a potential transfer of management to the National Park Service takes place. The profile, written by frequent contributor of Journal op-eds, Dave Menicucci, was headlined “Land of the People.”
“The possibilities are endless,” Tom Ribe exclaimed as he peered over the fence into the Valle Grande, the largest of the grassy valleys in the Valles Caldera National Preserve. “With the possibility of the Park Service assuming management, we are on the cusp of taking this property back to the citizens who own it.”
Ribe was pondering the possible changes if the Valles Caldera, currently under an experimental management system, is converted to a National Park Service preserve. It would become the country’s 19th preserve, and most users would recognize substantial operational differences.
“Access will be significantly increased, fees will be reduced or eliminated, and activities will be expanded,” Ribe said. “But resources will continue to be protected.”
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