Arches National Park named first Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site in Utah

Leave No Trace Education and Training Director J.D. Tanner (left) and Superintendent Lena Pace (right). Photo: NPS/Karen Garthwait

Moab, Utah — Arches National Park has been named a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site, becoming the first site in Utah to achieve this elite designation.

“Leave No Trace is thrilled to announce Arches National Park as the first designated Gold Standard Site in Utah,” Dana Watts, Leave No Trace executive director, said in a statement. “The hard work of staff and innovative programs means Arches National Park is a leading force in the Leave No Trace movement nationally and an example of how effective the role of education is in protecting our shared lands.”

In order to be designated as a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site, a location must meet the following criteria:

• Demonstrate successful implementation of Leave No Trace outdoor skills and ethics into management, programming, outreach, and education efforts at the site.
• Formally train staff and community partners in Leave No Trace and outdoor ethics.
• Include Leave No Trace language and messaging on signs at trailheads, as well as in pamphlets and other distributed materials for visitors.

The official designation was awarded on June 21 at a small ceremony at the Arches National Park Visitor Center.

“We are honored to receive this recognition for all the work our staff have done to promote Leave No Trace awareness among park visitors,” Lena Pace, Arches superintendent, said in a statement. “Caring for special places like Arches takes everyone’s help.”