Bipartisan rock climbing bill sponsored by Curtis

With 99 percent of federally managed lands located in the West, U.S. Rep. John Curtis (R-UT) wants to ensure responsible access to rock climbing in designated wilderness areas.

Toward that goal, Rep. Curtis on March 10 sponsored the bipartisan Protect America’s Rock Climbing (PARC) Act, H.R. 1527, with original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse (D-CO) to improve access for outdoor recreation through the use of special recreation permits on federal recreational lands and waters, according to the congressional record bill summary.

“In Utah, recreation on public lands is a large and ever-growing industry,” Rep. Curtis said. “Ensuring access to these lands is vital not just for our economy, but also to ensure the millions of Americans who enjoy rock climbing can fully explore our nation’s national treasures.”

If enacted, H.R. 1527 would reiterate Congressional intent for rock climbing to be an activity allowable and compatible with wilderness designations, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.

The bill also would require public notice and comment before any significant action is taken related to climbing access and would ensure emergency authority for agencies to take time sensitive actions to protect natural resources or public health and safety, the summary says.

“By requiring additional agency guidance on climbing management, we are taking steps to protect our climbers and the spaces in which they recreate,” said Rep. Neguse. “I am thankful to Rep. Curtis for his continued partnership in our efforts to bolster outdoor recreation, and am glad to join him in introducing this legislation.”

Access Fund Executive Director Chris Winter endorsed H.R. 1527, which has been referred to both the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee and the U.S. House Agriculture Committee for consideration.