Denali's draft Backcountry Management Plan was distributed for review in spring 2003. By the time the public comment period ended on May 30, 2003, several thousand comments had been received. Park staff are continuing work on reviewing and analyzing comments.

The plan updates and expands upon the 1976 Backcountry Management Plan as well as amends the 1986 General Management Plan. "We're pleased to see so many individuals taking the time to comment on this important plan for the future of Denali's backcountry," stated Denali National Park and Preserve Superintendent Paul Anderson. "We feel it is very important to reach out to various stakeholders, the general public, special interest groups, as well as State and Federal agencies, to be sure that all voices are heard."

National Park Service (NPS) Deputy Director Randy Jones and Superintendent Paul Anderson recently met with several senior level officials from the State of Alaska to review issues raised by the State and to clarify their comments and concerns. The NPS has scheduled subsequent meetings with the State and also plans to continue to meet with other interested stakeholders and the public. The NPS intends to address the State's comments, as well as other substantive comments from special interest groups, and the general public, in the final plan. The NPS will revise the plan consistent with the following principles:

• The plan will not close or restrict access in violation of ANILCA Section 1110(a).
• The plan will not propose to regulate activities or levels of use unless that is the only reasonable method to achieve the plan goals for desired future conditions in the backcountry of Denali.
• Regulations proposed, if any, will be developed as a separate process in full compliance with ANILCA and other applicable regulation.

"We are pleased that the National Park Service committed to continuing the dialog with the State of Alaska and Alaskan residents," stated Governor Frank Murkowski. "This will ensure the plan meets the needs of Alaskans, as well as those who visit Alaska, to enjoy Denali National Park and Preserve."

The plan's goals are to continue to provide for a range of visitor opportunities in the backcountry while protecting the internationally significant resources of the park and preserve. Each of the four action alternatives provides for growth in the level of backcountry use, with additional facilities and services proposed in three of the four action alternatives. The intent is to manage growth so that in the long term a greater number of users can experience the park with reduced environmental impacts. The environmental impact statement accompanying the draft plan addresses the impacts of each alternative, including potential impacts of park management decisions on lands outside the park.