Comment from jenkins, bree

I strongly support the draft climbing management guidance released by the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service implementing the Protecting America's Rock Climbing (PARC) Act. As a climber, public lands recreation professional, and someone who spends countless days on our federal lands, I appreciate that this guidance recognizes climbing as an appropriate use of Wilderness while also protecting the wild character that makes these places so special. Fixed anchors are an essential safety component of many established climbing routes. Allowing the continued maintenance of existing anchors is critical not only for preserving America's climbing history but also for ensuring that climbers are not forced to rely on aging or unsafe hardware. Maintaining existing anchors generally has minimal impact on Wilderness character while significantly improving visitor safety. I also appreciate that the guidance acknowledges the long history of climbing in Wilderness and provides a practical framework for continuing to manage these areas responsibly. Climbers have a long tradition of stewardship, trail work, habitat restoration, and Leave No Trace ethics. We are invested partners in caring for these landscapes and want management policies that allow us to continue contributing to their protection. I encourage the agencies to finalize guidance that remains consistent with the intent of the PARC Act while providing clear, consistent definitions and practical processes for fixed anchor maintenance and the management of new routes. Clear guidance will benefit both land managers and the climbing community by reducing uncertainty and supporting responsible stewardship. Thank you for considering my comments and for working to develop a balanced approach that protects both Wilderness character and the climbing opportunities that connect so many people to our public lands. I support the recognition that climbing is an appropriate Wilderness activity and that fixed anchors, critical pieces of the climbing safety system, are allowable in Wilderness. I also support provisions to allow climbers to place or replace fixed anchors without authorization in the event of an emergency. I appreciate that the policy protects existing climbing routes that were developed before the PARC Act was passed into law. Legacy Wilderness climbs should remain available in order to preserve America’s rich climbing legacy. Please improve policies to expedite timely replacement of fixed anchors in order to avoid unnecessary barriers to climber safety. The authorization process for new climbing routes that require fixed anchors should be easier to navigate. Please provide a clear path for programmatic authorization, or preauthorization, at climbing areas that do not necessitate case-by-case special use permits.