Dear Members of Congress,

We write to you as proud Americans united by our shared commitment to preserving one of our nation’s most cherished landmarks—Yosemite National Park. We are avid climbers guided by the principles of the Yosemite Climber’s Credo, nature lovers who find solace in its pristine landscapes, families sharing quality time under vast, starry skies, and citizens seeking adventure and reflection in the rugged wilderness, Yosemite holds a special place in our hearts and among our public lands.

We see this iconic park as a unifying force that transcends cultural, regional, and generational differences—connecting urban professionals, rural community members, young students, seasoned adventurers, and everyone in between.

For us, Yosemite embodies the values of respect, humility, stewardship, and inclusivity that define our collective spirit as Americans, inspiring us to act now to preserve this national treasure for ourselves and for future generations.

Yosemite: A Sanctuary of Shared Values

The Yosemite Climber’s Credo reminds us to:

• Protect the Wilderness and Climbing Culture: Honor the park’s natural beauty and unique heritage by minimizing our impact.
• Act with Humility and Stewardship: Recognize our role as respectful visitors entrusted with the care of this extraordinary place.
• Seek Knowledge and Embrace Community: Learn from Yosemite’s rich cultural and natural history, fostering a community where every voice is valued.
• Preserve the Legacy for Future Generations: Ensure that Yosemite remains unspoiled for the enjoyment and education of all Americans.

A 20-Year Legacy of Community Stewardship

For the past two decades, the Yosemite Climbing Association  has organized the largest community trash clean-ups in Yosemite. Through tireless volunteer efforts, we have united climbers, local residents, and nature enthusiasts in a continuous mission to keep our park pristine. This commitment not only reflects the core tenets of the Yosemite Climber’s Credo—respect, stewardship, and minimal impact—but also serves as a powerful example of community action that enhances the safety and beauty of this national treasure.

The Crisis: Impacts of Underfunding

Recent federal budget cuts have forced the National Park Service to reduce already critically low staffing levels, placing Yosemite, and the values it represents, at risk. The consequences are clear:

Environmental Degradation: Insufficient staffing will lead to a rise in trash and pollutants, undermining the park’s ecosystems and visitor experience.

Safety and Access Concerns: Essential services, including search and rescue and safety programs for climbers and visitors, are strained, endangering lives and diminishing the quality of our shared experiences.

Job Losses and Economic Impact: Cuts threaten Park Service jobs that are crucial not only for the park’s maintenance but also for supporting local economies and community well-being.

Our Urgent Message for Congress -- 

We respectfully urge you to take immediate steps to secure and protect the future of Yosemite by:

• Restore and Protect Funding: Increase support for the National Park Service so that Yosemite can be maintained and safeguarded for all Americans.
• Secure Park Service Jobs: Protect the dedicated workforce that upholds the park’s safety, environmental integrity, and cultural legacy.
• Invest in a Legacy of Stewardship: Support policies that honor the principles of the Yosemite Climber’s Credo and Yosemite Facelift, ensuring that there is long-term investment in community-led stewardship efforts. 

Yosemite is not merely a park—it is a symbol of the values we cherish as a nation. By acting now, you affirm that environmental stewardship, community safety, and economic vitality are priorities that transcend political lines. We stand together in urging you to protect this national treasure, ensuring that Yosemite’s legacy endures for all who seek inspiration, adventure, and a deeper connection with the land.

Thank you for your leadership on this urgent issue, your service to our nation and for your protection of our public lands. 

The Yosemite Climbing Association