‘‘The Grand Canyon’’ vs. ‘‘Soundscape of Nowhere.’’

Abstract

Twenty years have elapsed since the National Parks Overflights Act of 1987 targeted the once quiet but aviation-imperiled Grand Canyon National Park soundscape as worthy of an expeditious, potentially difficult ‘‘substantial restoration.’’ Within several more months, this protracted acoustic effort reaches its long-standing presidential deadline (April, 2008) for completion, as according to specifications/standards set by the National Park Service. A preliminary assessment (first presented by this author at ASA’s June biennial meeting) will be refined/updated in view of subsequent developments. Primary and emerging supplemental noise indicators and long-established (or possibly revised) Park Service restoration standards-based mainly on audibility and ‘‘restored’’ acreage—will be reviewed. Pertinent words and dimensions of soundscape assessment from this and other soundscape studies will be reviewed and compared, particularly re concepts of ‘‘wilderness character’’ and ‘‘beauty.’’ Effectiveness of anticipated management actions in the face of ongoing political/legal controversy will be examined, pitting restoration of the authentic Grand Canyon wilderness soundscape against a relatively unsavory option, ‘‘The Soundscape of Nowhere.’’ The Grand Canyon soundscape situation situation will be compared with preservation/restoration needs facing other similarly imperiled, iconic national parks in the West, which are at continuing risk for long-term aviation noise impairment.