Memorandum of Understanding

Between the Western States and the Federal Public Lands and Resources Agencies

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Forest Service

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, Army Corps of Engineers

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Bureau of Indian Affairs
Bureau of Land Management
Bureau of Reclamation
Fish and Wildlife Service
National Park Service

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, Federal Highway Administration

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

• Purpose of the MOU: Establish a framework for cooperation by:
  • advancing the public’s awareness of travel and tourism opportunities on public lands;
  • encouraging responsible use of these opportunities in an environmentally sensitive manner; and
  • enhancing the quality of life and fostering the long-term economic, social, educational, cultural and recreational viability of the West.
• Goals: Coordinate efforts to
  • Enhance the experience of visitors;
  • Support the long-term economic viability of the travel and tourism industry and communities which serve these visitors;
  • Protect, and where appropriate restore, the natural, environmental, cultural and historical resources which serve as the foundation for travel and tourism; and
  • Respect the needs and values of those people who live in the West.
• Federal resource and land management agencies are dedicated to the wise use of the nation’s natural and cultural heritage. Encouraging responsible travel and tourism on public lands is an appropriate way of furthering the public’s knowledge, awareness and appreciation.
• Travel and tourism to federal lands provide significant, economic, educational, and recreational benefits for the United States in general and the rural communities in particular. Federal lands provide an important component of the travel and tourism opportunities which appeal to traveling United States citizens and international visitors.
• The visitors and the rural areas of the United States can be better served by the cooperating organizations working together toward mutually developed objectives. These objectives contribute to the sustainability of local communities through the protection and management of America’s public land heritage now and in the future.
• The federal government and the states will work in a coordinated manner to develop and distribute information, and participate in community activities that enhance understanding about the use of travel and tourism to diversify the economic base of the community.
• The western states and the federal government will provide educational programs that enhance their ability to manage travel and tourism activities in balance with sustainable management practices in order to protect natural, environmental, historical and cultural resources.