Rock Climbing Steward Program coming to WA Pass + Mazama

[tcannistra]

Saw this today. The Access Fund (a non-profit that advocates for rock climbing access + stewardship, and also purchases some climbing areas to be held in trust to preserve access) is sending "stewards" our way this summer.

"Two seasonal field staff (April through October) will help address growing recreation pressures at some of the state’s most popular climbing hubs, Methow Valley and Wenatchee River Ranger Districts, by offering in-person climber education to support responsible recreation and resource management. This program represents a strategic partnership between Access Fund, the U.S. Forest Service, and local climbing and conservation organizations dedicated to the long-term health of Washington’s most visited climbing destinations—including Mazama, Washington Pass, Enchantments and Icicle Creek. As visitation to these iconic areas continues to increase, the Washington Program helps bridge the gap left by Forest Service funding and staffing reductions."

I think good to supplement the reduction in staff in the FS district.

https://www.accessfund.org/latest-news/access-fund-expands-climber-steward-program-to-washington