The national park service, intermountain region/environmental protection agency, region VIII, environmental partnership collaboration in wise stewardship

Abstract

AbstractThe National Park Service (NPS), Intermountain Region and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Region VIII have entered into a partnership effort. The work of the Partnership is based on the shared value of environmental protection and wise stewardship. The NPS has articulated goals for achieving safe, unimpaired park environments by the year 2000. The strategy for accomplishing these goals included significant partnership work and this effort has been largely focused with EPA. This Partnership project was designed to provide the parks with the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the 2000 initiative, design and implement an integrated park environmental management program, and incorporate sustainable practices into park operations. The Partnership team developed an innovative mix of training, “tools,” and technical assistance to achieve these outcomes. The work of the Partnership has been successful and there are documented changes in the way that NPS now manages both solid and hazardous waste.