Yellowstone Sets Parameters For Future Changes At Tower-Roosevelt

Work has been completed on a plan which places limits on change which might occur in the future in a portion of the northeast section of Yellowstone National Park. The Tower-Roosevelt Comprehensive Plan Environmental Assessment was released for public review and comment last June. Changes made in response to comments received were incorporated into a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), which was recently signed, and is now available online at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/yell.

The plan contains limits which are designed to protect the area’s natural resources, and preserve the historic, rustic nature of the area, which was first developed as a stage stop over one hundred years ago. It ensures that the Tower-Roosevelt area continues to be a scenic and rustic area where visitors can continue to enjoy horseback rides, and chuck wagon cookouts at Yancey’s Hole. The plan allows for limited growth at the Roosevelt Lodge cabins, and in the National Park Service administrative areas, to better serve visitor needs.

The Tower Fall Store will remain, but could be reduced in size, and the parking area may be redesigned and expanded for safety. The Tower Campground will remain small and rustic, with the possible construction of an additional vault toilet.

Public comment will be solicited in the future in the event that development of either a visitor contact or commercial services facility is proposed for Tower Junction.