CFACT Collegians are once again stepping beyond campus and into the policymaking arena—this time weighing in on how America’s national parks should be managed for both conservation and public enjoyment. Students RaeAnna Morales of Vanderbilt University in Tennessee and Ariana Alonso of William Paterson University in New Jersey recently submitted public comments on a proposed National Park Service rule to expand recreational access in Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky. Their submissions reflect a core principle of CFACT’s mission: that conservation and responsible human use are not mutually exclusive.
RaeAnna Morales, located just south of the national park across the state line in Nashville, builds on that same principle, reinforcing her support with detailed references to the environmental review and regulatory findings, while highlighting the potential economic boon new development plans pose to local businesses.
“To Whom it May Concern,
I support the National Park Service’s proposal to expand multiuse trail access and authorize bicycling and horseback riding on designated routes within Mammoth Cave National Park. This rule advances the park’s mission by expanding low impact recreation while maintaining strong environmental safeguards.
The proposal is backed by extensive review. As the NPS explains, ‘the Regional Director…signed a finding of no significant impact…that identified the preferred alternative…as the selected alternative,’ concluding that it ‘will improve the conditions and sustainability of the aboveground land and water trail networks…while protecting natural and cultural resources.’ These findings show that expanded access and conservation can coexist when supported by monitoring and sustainable trail design.
The rule responsibly implements the selected alternative by authorizing approximately 37 miles of multiuse trails for bicycles, adding eight new trails, and formally allowing equestrian use on the 5.4 mile Houchin Ferry North/Ollie Road. The EA confirms that trail surfaces, soils, safety, and resource protection were thoroughly evaluated, and that ‘final trail alignments would be determined on the ground…in consultation with park natural and cultural resources specialists.’
This proposal also avoids unnecessary regulatory burdens. It imposes no costs on small businesses and, as NPS notes, ‘could lead to a slight increase in park visitation and thereby generate benefits for businesses…through increased visitor spending.’ The rule complies with NEPA, executive orders, and Tribal consultation requirements.
Expanding responsible outdoor access helps Americans experience and appreciate their public lands, strengthening long-term support for conservation. I encourage the NPS to maintain strong monitoring and maintenance practices while avoiding unnecessary restrictions on responsible public use.
For these reasons, I support the proposed rule and urge its adoption.
RaeAnna Morales
CFACT Campus Representative at Vanderbilt”
Morales’ comment underscores a key tenet of CFACT’s approach: that conservation policy should be rooted in sound science, careful review, and practical outcomes—not unnecessary restriction.
Ariana Alonso (above), writing from New Jersey, reinforced that same principle through a more experience-driven perspective, emphasizing the value of public access and responsible use in building long-term stewardship.
“I am writing to express support for the proposal to expand certain recreational uses within Mammoth Cave National Park. Allowing bicycling on designated multi-use trails and formally recognizing horseback riding access along Houchin Ferry North/Ollie Road represents a thoughtful and practical approach to managing recreation on public lands.
National parks serve not only as protected landscapes but also as places where the public can actively experience nature. Providing additional opportunities for low-impact activities such as cycling and horseback riding allows visitors to engage more directly with the park while still respecting its ecological integrity. Expanding access on clearly designated routes is a sensible way to balance visitor use with conservation goals.
Designating specific trails for bicycles helps guide visitors toward appropriate areas, reducing the likelihood of informal trail creation or off-trail travel that could harm sensitive resources. Similarly, formally recognizing equestrian use on a road that has historically supported that activity brings clarity to park regulations and helps ensure that use is managed responsibly.
Recreation often plays an important role in building public appreciation for protected lands. When people can responsibly explore and enjoy these places, they are more likely to support long-term conservation efforts. Expanding managed access can therefore strengthen both public engagement and stewardship.
As this proposal moves forward, continued monitoring of trail conditions and visitor use will be important to ensure that natural resources remain protected. With proper oversight and maintenance, these recreational opportunities can coexist with the park’s conservation mission.
Thank you to the National Park Service for considering public input on this proposal. I encourage the agency to adopt the rule and continue pursuing balanced management strategies that allow people to responsibly experience our national parks.
Ariana Alonso, CFACT Campus Representative at William Paterson University“
