november 2013 newswire

Association of Partners for Public Lands News and Notes November 2013

N e w s w i r e

APPL NEWS

• Online Forum Discussions

• Bridge To Tomorrow News

• Training News NEWSBITS AGENCY NEWS

• National Park Service

• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

CONVENTION NEWS FEDERAL UPDATES MEMBER NEWS VENDOR SUPPORT NEWS FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES MARKETPLACE POSITIONS AVAILABLE RESOURCES

APPL NEWS The APPL Board of Directors held their Fall Meeting in Washington, D.C. on October 11-12. In the midst of the federal government shutdown, the board and staff met with key Congressional leaders including Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Ranking Member Peter DeFazio of the House Committee on Natural Resources to urge the reopening of all public lands. The board also adopted an annual work plan and budget for FY 2014, ratified a new member recruitment strategy and selected a facilitator for APPL’s strategic planning process. The October 1 -16 federal government shutdown had a profound impact on APPL member organizations by closing retail operations, cancelling fundraising and membership events, halting educational programs and countless other activities. APPL staff worked closely with its member organizations to quantify and summarize these impacts and then share them with elected officials and the media. APPL also participated in coalitions of like-minded organizations including the National Parks Hospitality Association and the U.S. Travel Association to urge the reopening of all public lands and the extension of the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act. APPL is compiling a summary report on the impact to nonprofit partners of public lands that will be used in future Hill visits and in communications with our federal agency partners. If your organization has not yet completed our online post-shutdown survey, please do so today at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/PostShutdownSurvey. Twenty–two nonprofit partner organizations have submitted 97 entries for the 2014 APPL Media and Partnership Awards. The judges are now hard at work selecting winners for each of the twelve awards categories. Finalists will be announced in December and the winners will be recognized at a special ceremony on Wednesday, February 26, 2014 in Albuquerque, NM as part of the 2014 APPL Partnership Convention. APPL members – check your in box for your 2014 renewal information. This year we have moved to an online renewal system. Renewal notices were sent via email on Monday, November 4. To renew your organization’s membership for 2014 click here and enter the user name and password provided in the email. As recognition of the unnecessary financial, human resource and public relations obstacles many of our member organizations encountered as a result of the federal government shutdown we are reallocating some of our resources to deliver two additional member benefits in the coming months:

Supporting Education

and

Stewardship

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Newswire is a monthly publication dedicated to news and information on issues important to the public lands community. Deadline for submissions is the third Thursday of each month. Items may be submitted for review and publication to [email protected]. To subscribe to Newswire, please send an e-mail with your complete contact information to [email protected]. We also encourage you to add your board members to Newswire’s electronic distribution list. Support APPL through the Combined Federal Campaign. Use identification #12051 on your CFC designation form. Interact with APPL and continue the dialogue at:

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Association of Partners for Public Lands News and Notes November 2013 page 2

• APPL members will receive a special rate of $400 for early registration to the 2014 APPL Partnership Convention and Trade Show – a $50 savings off our usual member rate and $175 off the nonmember rate - when you renew by January 10, 2014.

• APPL members are invited to participate in a free webinar series the week of December 9. These online sessions will focus on topics related to emergency preparedness and will be based on responses to our post-shutdown survey.

Dues payment plans, allocated over three installments, are available upon request by e-mailing [email protected]. Your membership also qualifies you to apply for scholarships to the APPL Partnership Convention and Trade Show and other training programs. Learn more by clicking here (username and password required). If you have questions about your 2014 renewal or member benefits, please do not hesitate to contact Nancy Kotz, our Member Services Coordinator, at [email protected] or 301-946-9475, extension 224.

Online Forum Discussions APPL’s Online Forums are available exclusively to staff, board members and volunteers of APPL member organizations. A full list of the forums may be found at http://lists.appl.org/lists/lists. Join a forum by contacting us at [email protected]. Here is a sample of the online discussions APPL members engaged in over the past month: APPL Buyers Forum:

• Sources for National Park Scrabble

• Including association information in Junior Ranger publications APPL Member Forum:

• Printer suggestions

• Trail Leaflets

• Field School Insurance

• Agency representation at board meetings

• Visitor center staff job title

• Tips on structuring a membership program

Training News If you would like more information on training and capacity building opportunities for your organization, please contact APPL Education Coordinator, Chuck Benjamin, at [email protected] or 301-946-9475 x 225. In the aftermath of the government shutdown, APPL did extensive research, through surveys and telephone calls, to determine how the shutdown affected our member organizations. A principal theme that emerged from our research was that losses may have been mitigated had organizations been better prepared. In an effort to assist with organizational preparation in the event of a similar occurrence, APPL is offering a Webinar series, Shutdown 2013: Regaining Our Ground and Preparing for the Future, designed to explore best practices and lessons learned from the most recent shutdown. The series is free for all APPL member organizations. Join us December 10–12 as we aim to counter the effects of another potentially damaging event and begin to prepare … in case it happens again. Schedule: December 10, 1–2 p.m. Building Your Operating Reserves December 11, 1–2 p.m. External Relations (Planning and Communication) December 12, 1–2 p.m. Advocacy


Cost: APPL members FREE Non-Members $50/Webinar, $129 for the entire series For more information, please contact Education Coordinator Chuck Benjamin at [email protected]. Because of the government shutdown, APPL has rescheduled the partnership consultation with Antietam and Monocacy National Battlefields, and Western Maryland Interpretive Association, their nonprofit partner. The consultation, which will now take place November 21–23, will build on successes within the partnership with an eye on the future for all involved. For more information on partnership consultations and assessments, please contact APPL Education Coordinator Chuck Benjamin at [email protected].

Bridge To Tomorrow News APPL’s Bridge to Tomorrow (B2T) program provides young leaders an opportunity to develop their professional network and learn more about public land partnerships. Do you know any young professionals/leaders involved in public lands? If so, please forward this information to them for a chance to get involved in our newly redesigned

Bridge to Tomorrow (B2T) program. B2T is a two year developmental leadership program that seeks to include emerging leaders in the conversation about the value and future of public lands and public-private partnerships. The program includes a signature project, convention presentation, convention networking, mentoring opportunities, and career development resources by working with other B2T members throughout the year and attending the yearly APPL Convention. The program started in 2009 and is funded jointly by APPL’s Next Generation Fund, members, and partners. You can show your support for the program by donating to the Next Generation Fund. Applicants should be young professionals, college students, or volunteers (18-30 years of age) associated with a public land organization, program, or land management agency. Previous B2T participants are welcome to re-apply. Participants are responsible for their own expenses to attend and participate in the Convention – scholarships opportunities are available. Thanks to the generous donation of APPL member organizations and partners, scholarships are available to applicants of APPL member organizations based on need and/or previous APPL scholarship awards. If requesting scholarship funds, please complete the scholarship section of the application. Requests for a scholarship are not a guarantee of funding. The application can be found here and the deadline is November 22. Contact Alex Vidal [email protected] with any questions.

NEWSBITS In an effort to eliminate the costly inefficiency of varied charitable solicitation filing requirements in 40 individual states, the National Association of State Charity Officials (NASCO) has announced a project to create a single online portal where charitable nonprofits can complete all their required charitable registration state filings. The project is still in the planning stages and could take some time before nonprofits see potential cost savings. Nonprofit public land partners have two seasonal opportunities in November to increase their impact and engage the public: • Small Business Saturday - is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses across the country.

Founded by American Express in 2010, it is celebrated every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This year, Small Business Saturday is on November 30.


• Giving Tuesday – will be celebrated this year on December 3. It is designed to encourage philanthropy during the holiday season.

On September 28th, our nation celebrated the 20th Anniversary of National Public Lands Day (NPLD) by participating in hikes, free entrance days, trail maintenance parties, camp-outs, shoreline cleanups and other fun activities on our public lands. More than 175,000 volunteers helped restore and beautify public lands at 2,237 sites in every state, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Here is a snapshot of who participated in NPLD: Participation by Public Land Type Federal Sites by Agency*

• Federal Public Lands: 914 (40 percent)

• State Parks: 440 sites (20 percent)

• City and Town Parks: 382 (16 percent)

• Urban Parks: 229 (11 percent)

• Counties, Park Districts, Regional Parks and Conservation Districts: 129 (6 percent)

• Misc. Sites (unidentified public lands): 134 (6 percent)

• Schools: 8 (<1 percent)

• Bureau of Land Management: 189

• Department of Defense: 35

• National Park Service: 138

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: 278

• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: 43

• U.S. Forest Service: 102

• Federal Sites as a Fee Free Day Only: 134

• Other Federal Sites: 10 *Note: Some federal sites were hosted by more than one federal agency

Additional Stats

• About 175,000 volunteers contributed more than $18 million in improvements to public lands.

• NPLD received a Presidential Proclamation for the fifth year in a row.

• Additionally, 36 states, Washington, D.C. and 74 cities and counties proclaimed September 28 as NPLD. View the proclamations.

• Thirty-six different state park systems participated in NPLD. A total of 419 state park sites participated in the effort, an increase from 355 in 2012.

• A record 19 state park systems signed memos of mutual support officially recognizing NPLD on September 28.

• Toyota celebrated its 15th year of partnership with NPLD. Representatives from Toyota led projects at more than 36 sites in 19 states.

• A record 156 sites affiliated with REI participated in #NPLD20, surpassing 2012's total of 59. Get out your cameras and celebrate the natural beauty of America's public lands. Showcase fellow volunteers in action by entering the National Public Lands Day’s annual photo contest. Revised with a new theme for 2013, this contest celebrates the faces and places we see on our public lands. Share your favorite places and/or the people you spend time with at these special spots, including friends, volunteer groups, or maybe your favorite scenic lookout or hiking trail. In addition to seeing your photo on 2014 promotional materials, you can also win gear for your next trail adventure. This year's contest is sponsored by REI and includes the below prizes:

• 1st Place: REI hiking prize pack with backpack, binoculars, trekking poles and more (approximate value $420)

• Two runners-up: REI trail walk starter kit with binoculars, trekking poles and a trail chair. (approximate value $260)

Submit your photo by Monday, December 2. Learn more about the contest and how to enter here.


AGENCY NEWS On October 31 Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell addressed a gathering at the National Press Club in Washington, DC. She used the opportunity to speak about the Administration’s vision for conservation and how it will strengthen our economy and ensure that we pass along our nation’s rich legacy to the next generation – a path forward that includes balanced infrastructure and energy development, conservation and engaging youth on our public lands. Highlights from her remarks regarding engaging the next generation with support from the private sector included the following: Today, I’m pleased to announce an ambitious initiative at Interior that we’ll undertake to inspire millions of young people to play, learn, serve and work outdoors. First, we are going to develop or enhance partnerships in 50 cities to create opportunities for outdoor recreation for more than ten million young people by 2017. With nearly 80 percent of our population living in cities – places where open spaces are few and far between – expanding our urban parks and partnerships is critical. Second, we’re going to use the nation’s best natural classrooms – our public lands – to provide educational opportunities to at least ten million of the nation’s K through 12 students annually Third, we are setting a goal of engaging one million volunteers in support of public lands by 2017, effectively tripling the numbers we have now. Having served on many trail crews, I know that volunteering can establish a life-long connection to our natural resources. By ramping up the 21st Century Conservation Service Corps, Interior, USDA and other agencies in the federal family will work with Americorp, the Student Conservation Association; sand other groups across the country to give many more young people and veterans these inspirational opportunities. And finally, to develop the next generation of stewards of our public lands and our own skilled and diverse workforce, Interior and other federal land management agencies will provide 100,000 work and training opportunities to young people over the next four years There’s no doubt that these goals are ambitious – especially in these tight budget times. In order to make these happen, we are going to prioritize our budgets, build off successful programs and work in partnership with schools, non-profit organizations and communities to leverage existing resources. We will also work with corporate and non-profit organizations to raise an additional $20 million over four years to support these youth work and training opportunities From my experience in the private sector, I know that there are many organizations and individuals that want to see our lands protected and the next generation engaged. We will work together to make these goals a reality. You may view the speech in its entirety as well as read the full text as prepared for delivery here. President Obama has announced his intention to nominate Rhea S. Suh as Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks. If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Suh would oversee and coordinate policy decisions for the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

National Park Service A striking photograph of American Lotus at dawn in the Great Plains is the top winner in the 2013 National Natural Landmarks Program Photo Contest. Kenneth M. Highfill of Lawrence, KS captured the image at the Baker University Wetlands, designated a National Natural Landmark in 1969 as an example of undisturbed wetland prairie. More than 260 species of birds and more than 430 species of plants have been recorded at the site, including the American Lotus flowers captured in Highfill’s winning photograph. The 10th annual contest drew 88 images representing 71 different National Natural Landmark sites across 31 states and Puerto Rico. Second place went to Eric Grimm of San Diego, CA for his photo of a


reflected sunrise at Emerald Bay at Lake Tahoe, and third place went to Joseph Henry of Davis, WV for his image of the Canaan Valley. The three winning photos and 10 honorable mentions will be featured in the 2014 National Natural Landmarks calendar. View the 13 winning photographs from this year’s contest here. A complete list of national natural landmarks and additional information about the program can be found here. Christina Goldfuss has been named as Deputy Director for Congressional and External Relations at the national Park Service. Goldfuss’ duties will include coordinating with Members of Congress and leading the National Park Service’s Office of Legislative and Congressional Affairs and Office of International Affairs.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service A new report released by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) shows that national wildlife refuges are a good investment for American taxpayers and boost local economies. The Banking On Nature study shows that for every $1 Congress provides in funding to run the National Wildlife Refuge System on average $4.87 is returned to local communities. The report, the fifth of its kind released by FWS with the last report released in 2007, shows a remarkable trend of increased visitation to refuges and increased economic contribution to local communities – all during the height of the greatest economic recession since the Great Depression. From 2006 to 2011, refuge visitation increased by 30 percent increase and overall economic output from refuges increased by 20 percent, resulting in an annual $2.4 billion returned to local economies. FWS anticipates the upward trend in Refuge visits and local economic stimulus will continue. However, NWRA and over 230 volunteer, local refuge “Friends” groups are concerned that with recent dramatic budget cuts and more on the horizon, this trend is at risk as refuges are closed to visitors because of lack of staff and resources. Highlights from Banking On Nature Report indicate that the National Wildlife Refuge System:

• Generates $2.4 billion in sales and economic output, a 20% increase (from 2006);

• Welcomes 46.5 million visitors annually, a 30% increase (from 2006);

• Returns on average $4.87 to a local economy for every $1.00 Congress provides in funding, a 22% increase (from 2006);

• Creates 35,000 jobs annually, a 23% increase (from 2006);

• Produces $792.7 million in job income for local communities;

• Generates $342.9 million in local, county, state and federal tax revenue;

• Brings tourists from around the nation and world - 77 percent of refuge spending was done by visitors from outside the local area;

• Provides a combined economic benefit to communities nationwide that is almost five times the amount appropriated to run the System.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has launched an Urban Wildlife Refuge Initiative. About 80% of America’s population lives in urban or suburban areas. To engage these communities in wildlife and habitat conservation, meaningful connections must be created that result in an appreciation of nature, our interconnectedness and a deeper commitment to conservation. For more information about these partnerships, visit here or watch a quick video here! U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has appointed Betsy Hildebrandt as the agency’s new Assistant Director for External Affairs. Hildebrandt, a communications professional with more than 20 years’ experience in the public and private sectors, has been the agency’s chief of staff since January of 2011 and previously served in the Department’s communications office.


The National Wildlife Refuge Association’s has selected Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi (pronounced Maha-ta-hopie) Waterfowl Production Area (WPA) as their Friends Group of the Year. The Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi is comprised of 40 members who support the waterfowl refuge located just a few miles west of Huron, SD. Because of federal budget cuts, national wildlife refuges everywhere have been struggling just to keep the doors open. Despite these immense challenges, the Friends of Maga Ta-Hohpi have stepped up to the plate to rise above the challenges and continue to raise money through fundraisers and donations. A new Facebook group is available for Friends groups who partner with the National Fish and Wildlife Service. Friends of NWRs (By Friends) was created to help Friends connect, share, vent shutdown frustrations, and promote ways to advocate for the Refuge System. Thankfully the shutdown is over, but this Facebook group will live on. It provides Friends with another site to discuss the management of their nonprofit organizations and legislative issues. To join the group login into Facebook and go to Friends of NWRs (By Friends). A group administrator will respond to your request.

CONVENTION NEWS The Art of Partnerships: 2014 APPL Partnership Convention & Trade Show, February 23-27, Albuquerque, NM. Details coming soon to www.appl.org.

2014 Convention participants will be offered the opportunity to attend in-depth sessions designed to take a comprehensive look at various topics of interest on Sunday, February 23 before the start of regular convention activities. The sessions offered are: The Nonprofit Business Plan—the Triple Bottom Line Randy Widera, R.W. Widera Consulting

Time: 8:00 am - 11:00 am Registration Fee: $90 with attendee registration

Developing a plan and set of metrics that focuses your organization on creating the maximum value to: the parks you serve, the people who visit them and your long term fiscal sustainability. Through reviewing and analyzing real-life case studies, participates will compare and identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to their organization and learn how to use the traditional business strategies of a: Situation Assessment, Value Proposition, Pro-forma, Market Analysis and Marketing Plan in support of their mission and the parks they serve. Social Media—Oh, the Possibilities! Beth Pratt, National Wildlife Federation (APPL Training Corps)

Time: 8:00 am - 11:00 am Registration Fee: $90 with attendee registration

Social media. We all have heard of it, some use it religiously. But do we all know the potential of this technological tool to help grow our organization? Join us as we explore different social media outlets and the potential of each. We’ll consider successful examples of fundraising/ revenue, engagement, appeals and sales posts, and learn how to put together a social media plan for any organization size and budget. Communicating is for the Birds Nicki Phelps, Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy (APPL Training Corps)

Time: 12:00 pm - 2:30 pm Registration Fee: $75 with attendee registration

While representing public lands, communication is our tool of choice. Doesn’t it make sense to practice making yourself understood to as many people as possible? Join Nicki Phelps (Peacock) in this fast


paced, fun, informative session and learn your dominant communication style. You’ll learn to identify the four major communication style, exemplified by their bird counterparts: Eagle, Owl, Dove and Peacock. Each bird-style needs to process information in unique ways. By understanding them and adapting your style to that of others, it’s easy to get your point across! For more information about any of the pre-conference sessions, please visit www.appl.org or contact Education Coordinator Chuck Benjamin at [email protected]. Attendee online registration will open Monday, November 18 at www.appl.org. New for 2014 – Participant convention registration materials will be posted to www.appl.org with a downloadable registration booklet that you can print and/or share electronically with your staff, board, and partners. In an effort to reduce waste and save on printing and mailing costs we will not be mailing out hardcopies of the registration materials. The full convention program with details about sessions, workshops, keynote speakers, and special events will be posted to www.appl.org by November 18. Save money, increase your networking opportunities, and ease your travel logistics by booking your hotel reservation at the convention headquarter hotel, the Hyatt Regency Albuquerque. Prior to registering for the convention online, make your Hyatt reservations. Then, use your Hyatt hotel confirmation number to access additional benefits. Registered convention attendees who stay at the Hyatt Regency Albuquerque at least three nights during the convention will receive:

• Complimentary Opening Reception ticket ($49 value)

• Discounted Closing Banquet ticket for $10 ($45 savings)

• A meal voucher for Wednesday lunch ($10 value)

• Hyatt Regency Albuquerque perks - Complimentary guestroom Internet - Group rate three days pre/post-convention based on availability

Your Hyatt confirmation number must be provided with your attendee registration in order to redeem these benefits. No refunds will be granted for confirmation numbers provided at a later date. Make your Hyatt Regency hotel reservation online or by calling 888-421-1442 (be sure to ask for the APPL convention rate). Early online registration opens November 18 at www.appl.org. Visit www.appl.org for convention information and the complete list of registration rates and dates.

Early Registration Rates November 18, 2013 – January 10, 2014

Attendee Registration* APPL Member Government Nonmember

$450 $400 ($50 savings)* $450 $575

Daily Registration APPL Member Government Nonmember

$225 $225 $290

Companion Registration $235

*Special $50 savings on early registration rates for APPL members. APPL recognizes the unnecessary financial impact many of our member organizations experienced as a result of the federal government shutdown. Therefore, the Board of Directors has authorized use of Education and Scholarship funds to provide APPL members with a $50 discount on the usual early member registration rate. This


only applies to the early registration rate so plan to register by January 10, 2014 to take advantage of this special offer. Only 44 booths remain for the 2014 Trade Show – so don’t delay, register today and secure your space. The trade show is expected to sell out quickly so visit www.appl.org to learn more and register online. In addition, you can view a list of registered exhibitors and the exhibit hall floor plan that shows available booths. If you have any questions contact APPL Trade Show Coordinator, Amy Norris, at [email protected] or at 703-501-9199 EST. Buyers are looking for 2014 show specials NOW so they can plan for their spring inventories and write purchase orders to bring with them to Albuquerque. Buyers appreciate show specials that offer free shipping and discounts with options for extended ordering dates after the show. If you’ve already registered as an exhibitor check the 2014 exhibitor list at www.appl.org to see if you entered your show specials when you registered. You can add or update your show specials online by using the unique web link and password supplied in your confirmation email. If you have questions about accessing or editing your exhibitor record online, please contact our registrar, Misty Frank, at 304-724-3006 (EST) or email her at [email protected]. APPL has arranged for a post-convention trip to Santa Fe. Travel north to historic and picturesque Santa Fe. Upon arrival you may take an optional guided walking tour, visiting such points of interest as the historic Plaza, St. Francis Cathedral, the Loretto Chapel with its famous “miraculous” staircase, and the San Miguel Mission. Founded in 1610, Santa Fe was the last stop on the Camino Real, the fabled Royal Road that stretched from Mexico City to the northernmost reaches of the Spanish Empire. Today it is the heart and soul of the Southwest. Its historic Plaza, winding streets, covered arcades, hidden gardens and courtyards and Pueblo-style architecture reflect the blending of Indian, Hispanic and Anglo cultures. Lunch will be on your own at one of the many fabulous restaurants in the Plaza area. You will then be free to explore on your own or indulge in a southwestern shopping spree at the many unique specialty stores and galleries around the Plaza. Nearly all the city’s main cultural attractions are also within walking distance of the Plaza, including the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the Palace of the Governors. Price includes bus coach transportation, professional tour guide, walking tour, and admission to the Loretto Chapel and San Miguel Mission. Santa Fe – Historic Walking Tour Date: Thursday, February 27 Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (departs and returns to Hyatt Regency Albuquerque) Registration Fee: $80/person

FEDERAL UPDATES A bill introduced last month in the House would enable taxpayers to claim charitable deductions up to the April 15 date of filing with the Internal Revenue Service for the previous tax year. The Charitable Giving Extension Act would extend the period of time when taxpayers can claim a charitable contribution on their itemized deductions beyond the normal December 31 end of the tax year. The bill will likely be considered, if at all, as part of comprehensive tax reform in 2014.


Legislative Update APPL is tracking the following legislation relevant to the nonprofit public land partner community.

HR 1834 21st Century Great Outdoors Commission Act Would establish a national recreation commission with members appointed by Congress and the White House. Introduced By: Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ) Status: Referred to Committee

HR 3294 State-Run Federal Lands Act To establish a procedure for states to identify lands it wished to manage that are now managed by BLM, the Forest Service, the National Park Service, and the Fish and Wildlife Service. Introduced By: Rep. Don Young (R-AK) Status: Referred to Committee

H.R. 3311 PARC Act To direct the Secretary of the Interior to enter into agreements with States to allow continued operation of facilities and programs that have been determined to have a direct economic impact on tourism, mining, timber, or general transportation in the State and which would otherwise cease operating, in whole or in part, during a Federal Government shutdown that is the result of a lapse in appropriations, and for other purposes. Introduced By: Chris Stewart, (R-UT) Status: Referred to Committee

H.R. 1300 To amend the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956 Reauthorized volunteer programs and community partnerships for the benefit of national wildlife refuges. Introduced By: Rep. Jon Runyan [R-NJ3] Status: Passed House

S. 783 H.R.527

Helium Stewardship Act of 2013 Retains proceeds from the sale of helium from the Federal Helium Reserve to pay for the costs of operating the reserve and as a result would provide funds to the National Park Service (NPS) to improve infrastructure at parks. Introduced By: Sen. Ron Wyden [D-OR]; Doc Hastings [R-WA] Status: Passed by the House on September 19; Passed by the Senate on September 27; Sent to president for signature

H.R. 638 National Wildlife Refuge Review Act of 2013 Amends the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 to require that any new national wildlife refuge may not be established except as expressly authorized by statute. Introduced By: Rep. John Fleming [R-LA4] Status: Reported by Committee

H.R. 2595 S. 1384

American Parks American Products Act Requires that any products sold in gift stores or visitors centers operated by the National Park Service (NPS) or located in areas operated by NPS or the National Archives & Records Administration be manufactured in the United States Introduced By: Rep. Steve Israel [D-NY3]; Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand [D-NY] Status: In Committee in both House and Senate

H.R. 2702 S. 1306

No Child Left Inside Act of 2013 Provides funds to encourage partnerships between school districts, colleges, parks, and non-profits and other community-based organizations to implement the improved curricula and provide professional development for teachers on the use of field-based, service, and


experiential learning. Introduced By: Rep. John Sarbanes [D-MD3]; Sen. John “Jack” Reed [D-RI] Status: In Committee in both House and Senate

S.601 Water Resources Development Act of 2013 Provides the ability for the USACE to participate in America the Beautiful Lands Pass. Introduced By: Sen. Barbara Boxer [D-CA] Status: Passed by the Senate on May 15

H.R.627 S.1158

National Park Service 100th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act Provides for the issuance of coins to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the National Park Service. Introduced By: Rep. Erik Paulsen [R-MN3]; Sen. Mark Warner [D-VA] Status: In Committee in both the House and the Senate

H.R. 684 S. 336

Marketplace Fairness Act of 2013 Restores States' sovereign rights to enforce State and local sales and use tax laws. Introduced By: Rep. Steve Womack [R-AR3]; Sen. Michael Enzi [R-WY] Status: Passed by the Senate on May 6

H.R. 1212 Charitable Driving Tax Relief Act of 2013 Provides that reimbursements for costs of using passenger automobiles for charitable and other organizations are excluded from gross income. Introduced By: Rep. Thomas “Tom” Petri [R-WI6] Status: In Committee

Track the progress of these bills by visiting www.govtrack.us. To let your congressional representatives know your views on these pieces of legislation visit www.congress.org/congressorg/directory/congdir.tt.

MEMBER NEWS The Songs for Junior Rangers CD, produced by the National Park Service, has been named a 2013 National Parenting Publications Award (NAPPA) Silver winner, for quality, innovation, entertainment and educational value. It is distributed by Eastern National. For more than 20 years, the National Parenting Publications Awards (NAPPA) has been the go-to resource for the best products for families. NAPPA’s team of independent, expert judges, along with family and child testers, select the most innovative and enduring products to be NAPPA Gold, Silver and Honors winners in two annual competitions - Children’s Products and Parenting Resources. A complete list of all 2013 NAPPA Children’s Products winners will be available at www.NAPPAawards.com. The Songs for Junior Rangers CD is available now for $9.95 at www.eParks.com. For more information about this product and other Eastern National books and merchandise, visit www.eParks.com or call 877-NAT-PARK (877-628-7275). Wholesale opportunities are available. Friends of Black Rock High Rock has received the award as the top Friends organization from Conservation Lands Foundation. This award is given to an organization in the Friends Network that has shown outstanding and comprehensive leadership to advance the protection, restoration, and expansion of the National Conservation Lands. As a local champion of the Conservation Lands, this group has shown exemplary commitment, creativity and perseverance in its effective advocacy and organizational development. Congratulations!


A gift of $25 million from the S. D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation to the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy will lead the way for park enhancements at the very heart of the Presidio. This milestone gift marks the largest cash gift ever contributed to a national park. This honor came in conjunction with National Public Lands Day on September 28 and the anniversary of the date when the Presidio became a national park site on October 1, 1994. The Tunnel Top Parkland results from the construction of the Presidio Parkway (Doyle Drive replacement), which provides 10 new acres of parklands on the tunnel over the roadway, connecting the historic Main Post of the Presidio with Crissy Field. The vision for this site is a 21st century park destination full of visitor activities, scenic beauty, and connections to the diverse environments and programmatic offerings of the Presidio. The grant from the S. D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation also supports the expansion of indoor and outdoor facilities for youth programs at the Crissy Field Center. Located at the foot of the Tunnel Top Parkland, the Crissy Field Center is a nationally recognized program hub for youth engagement in environmental learning and community betterment. The vision for the new Tunnel Top Parkland also responds to the rising demand and tremendous promise for an expanded youth campus at Crissy Field to become the regional hub for environmental literacy, youth leadership and service. Widely regarded as a national model for environmental education and multicultural youth development, the Parks Conservancy’s youth programs at Crissy Field, in partnership with the National Park Service and Presidio Trust, effectively utilize national parks as outdoor classrooms and successfully link the parks, schools and community-based youth organizations. The proposed expansion of the Crissy Field Youth Campus will provide larger and improved facilities for programs, add capacity for educator trainings, and create a dynamic hub for community partners to take advantage of expanded collaboration - while inviting a greater number of urban youth into their local national park. Richard Millett, Executive Director of Intermountain Natural History Association, has been named the next president of the Peaks, Plateaus, and Canyons Association (PPCA). Richard's term will begin on January 1, 2014 and continue through December 31, 2015. Richard has already served as president of the Utah Coalition of Interpretive Associations (PPCA's predecessor) back in 1993, so this will be his second time around. Canyonlands Natural History Association's Barb Webb has agreed to serve a second term as PPCA's Secretary. Chris Eaton and Tracy Jones will continue to serve as PPCA's Vice President and Treasurer, respectively, through their terms that end on December 31, 2014. Julie Williams has joined the National Park Foundation as the Senior Vice President of Community Partnerships. In this role, she will lead NPF’s work to strengthen park philanthropy at the individual park level by working in partnership with Friends Groups. She will also lead the growth and strategic direction of the African American Experience Fund (AAEF) and the American Latino Heritage Fund (ALHF). You can reach Julie at 202-354-6474 and [email protected]. The Board of Trustees for the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has announced the appointment of W. Clark Bunting as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer. Bunting will officially take the helm on November 11 as President of NPCA. Western National Parks Association and the Metropolitan Education Commission are challenging Southern Arizona high school students to an essay contest in which students can explore the meaning of national parks in a democracy. It will culminate in the publishing of the best essays and a reception during the 2014 Tucson Festival of Books with retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Students are invited to consider the relationship between national parks and the nation, how parks can reach broader segments of American society, and the significance of national parks in a society increasingly driven by city living, technological innovation, and the accelerating speed of communication.


Mammoth Hot Springs' Albright Visitor Center is undergoing an extensive renovation. When it reopens in 2015, the remodeled interior will feature an interactive park orientation area; new exhibits highlighting park history and the diverse wildlife viewing available year-round on the northern range; and a new Yellowstone Association Park Store. Until then, visitors may talk with rangers and visit the YA Park Store in a temporary visitor center nearby. The renovated orientation area will help Yellowstone National Park visitors quickly find attractions and services, obtain weather and road conditions, determine campground availability, quickly understand key park regulations and safety tips, and find out about things to do in the park. A life-size diorama will showcase the flora and fauna of the northern range, while other exhibits will introduce park history from the first Native American visitors through the Army era of park management to the establishment of the National Park Service. The visitor center will be a hub where visitors can sample a bit of everything Yellowstone offers, then learn how to explore further through publications, other park exhibits, talks, tours, and personal experience. New restrooms, a new backcountry permit office, and interior reinforcements against seismic activity are part of the update of the building, which was constructed in 1909 as the Army bachelor officers' quarters at Fort Yellowstone. The Yellowstone Association, with the support of its members, donated $1.7 million to the renovation, one of the largest Association donations for a single project. The money will fund exhibit design and construction, including videos, podcasts, and new interactive outdoor exhibits along the Fort Yellowstone tour route.

VENDOR SUPPORT NEWS The financial effect of the shut down on Impact Photograpnics is still not completely clear, but they estimate the loss to their bottom line to be 100’s of thousands of dollars. This is the single biggest money losing event in their company’s history. Because of the timing and nature of this shut down, it has had a greater impact on Impact’s business than 9-11 or any previous shut down. This lost profit could have and would have been used to further reward employees, do special things for their wonderful customers, and reduce short term borrowing associated with growing their business. They have been forced to furlough some of their staff and cut back on the hours of others. In order to offset some of these losses, Impact has decided to cancel their annual holiday tradition of sending See’s Candy and other fun treats. This event will require significant sacrifice and will take years to recover from completely, but it will in no way compromise Impact’s commitment to their great partners in delivering first rate interpretive products, the very best presentation systems, and first class service. They will keep being Impact!

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES The Sustaining Cultural Heritage Collections program of the National Endowment for the Humanities provides support to help cultural institutions meet the complex challenge of preserving large and diverse holdings of humanities materials for future generations. The application deadline is December 3. The AmeriCorps State and National Grant Competitions program provides support to engage AmeriCorps members in interventions to strengthen communities. Focus areas include disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and veterans and military families. Letters of intent are due December 11. The application deadline is January 8.


The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is offering National Wildlife Refuge Friends grants. The grant provides $1500 to $5000 for “creative and innovative proposals that seek to increase the number and effectiveness of organizations…” Application deadline is November 28. This grant also accepts proposals for starting a Friends group, specific projects, and Peer-to-Peer Coaching. The National Forest Foundation’s Matching Awards Program provides support to nonprofit organizations, community organizations, and Native American tribes throughout the U.S. to engage in on-the-ground conservation and citizen-based monitoring projects benefiting National Forests and Grasslands. Funded projects must address one or more of the following program areas of emphasis: Wildlife Habitat Improvement, Recreation, Watershed Health and Restoration, or Community-Based Forestry. All grants require at least a one-to-one cash match through non-federal donations. The next application deadline is January 14. Visit the Foundation’s website to submit the required questionnaire. The Department of Agriculture’s Community Forest and Open Space Program provides support to establish community forests through acquisition of private forest land. The application deadline is January 15. The Temper of the Times Foundation promotes the use of standard marketing concepts to increase environmental awareness. Recognizing that organizations working to protect the environment often have limited access to paid media, the Foundation provides funds to underwrite advertising designed to promote wildland ecosystem conservation and restoration in the United States. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 may be used to fund the production of print, radio, or television ads; to pay for advertising space or airtime; or to produce or distribute pamphlets, books, videos, or press packets. The application deadline is December 15. Visit the Foundation’s website to submit an online application. The Celebrate Urban Birds Mini-Grant Program, an initiative of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, supports community organizations, educators, and youth throughout the United States that host neighborhood events that introduce the public and youth to birds found in urban areas. Funded events should feature activities involving birds, community service, art, greening, and/or science. Examples of eligible events include bird-activity days at local museums, libraries, or community centers, as well as art and gardening activities at clubs, schools, or senior centers. Mini-grants ranging from $100 to $500 are provided. Organizations working with underserved communities are strongly encouraged to apply. The application deadline is December 31. Visit the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s website to review the application materials. The National Endowment for the Humanities’ Collaborative Research program supports interpretive humanities research undertaken by teams of two or more scholars. The program seeks to enhance understanding of science, technology, medicine, and the social sciences. The application deadline is January 7. The National Science Foundation’s Advancing Informal STEM Learning program provides support to advance new approaches to the design and development of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning in informal environments. The application deadlines are January 14 and November 14. The National Park Service’s American Battlefield Protection Program’s Battlefield Preservation Project Grants provide seed money for projects that lead directly to the identification, preservation, and interpretation of battlefield land or historic sites associated with battlefields. The application deadline is January 16.


EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES

December 2013 America Outdoors Association Conference, December 4-6, Daytona Beach, FL.

February 2014 Peaks, Plateaus & Canyons Association Spring Meeting, February 11-13, in Zion National Park. Hosted by Zion Natural History Association. Please contact Tricia Lund at [email protected] for more information. The Art of Partnerships: 2014 APPL Partnership Convention & Trade Show, February 23-27, Albuquerque, NM.

March2014 National Legislative Forum on Parks and Recreation, March 25-26, Arlington, VA.

April 2014 Extend the Experience: the 59th MSA Conference & Expo, April 11–14, Houston, TX.

August 2014 Outdoor Retailers Trade Show, August 6-9, Salt Lake City, UT.

October 2014 National Recreation and Park Association, October 14-16, Charlotte, NC.

MARKETPLACE Featuring donors to APPL’s Vendor Support Program (VSP). View a directory of all our VSP donors at www.appl.org. Safari Ltd® is donating 5 toys for every new Facebook like it receives during the month of November to the Toy Industry Foundation (TIF), the philanthropic arm of the North American toy industry. Dubbed You Like, We Give, the promotion specifically supports the Toy Industry Foundation’s signature program, The Toy Bank, benefitting children in need this holiday season. Safari Ltd® has committed to donating up to 2,500 toys. Your True Nature is having an Advice from Nature Contest! Here's how it works . . . Think of the Advice you would like them to add for 2015. Be sure to include one line (or more if the ideas are flowing) of text. For example: Advice From A Kangaroo - Hop To It. Go to www.yourtruenature.com/contest-appl no later than December 15 and fill out the form. If they add your Advice suggestion for their regular 2015 line, you'll get a coupon for $100 off on any wholesale order and a dozen bookmarks and postcards FREE with the Advice title you have suggested. Their new advice for 2014 is coming soon! Advice from a Pumpkin, Wood Duck, Fossil, Sunset, Porcupine, Mushroom, Coyote, Tide Pool, Rainforest, Mountain Lion, Pot, Petroglyph and Cliff Dwelling. Advice from Nature . . . it’s their best advice!


POSITIONS AVAILABLE Additional position listings may be found at www.appl.org. Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont is seeking an experienced and visionary leader who has the abilities and skills necessary to build on the organization’s past successes and move them forward. Their ideal candidate will have strong non-profit business management skills including fund raising and communications, as well as be a leader in environmental education. They are seeking a person who will understand and be capable of managing the many facets of a residential environmental learning center working in partnership with the National Park Service. Send resume, letter of interest, including salary history and expectations to: Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, 9275 Tremont Rd. Townsend, TN 37882, 865-448-6709 or email to: [email protected]

RESOURCES Suggest a resource by e-mailing [email protected]. Blackbaud has developed an infographic that highlights generational trends in giving. It is a companion piece to their latest report, The Next Generation of American Giving. A Practical Guide to Integrated Communications: A Workbook for Nonprofits is an interactive guide is designed to serve as your blueprint as you work to bring together the many different channels you use to communicate with constituents, and the many different ways you communicate with them. As you complete the worksheets, they’ll walk you through an audit of what you’re currently doing, teach you to think through what you should be doing, and help you create a tactical plan and schedule to organize your approach to what you’re communicating, when, and through which channels.. Join The Chronicle of Philanthropy on November 21 for Innovative Ways to Recruit Board Members. This webinar is designed teach you cutting-edge approaches that can help you recruit your next board members. You’ll hear from a nonprofit leader who has mastered the use of social networks to find board members with the expertise and connections his organization needs - but would probably not have found with traditional techniques. There is a nominal fee for this program. Check out these upcoming webinars from Nonprofit Hub:

• Tom Ahern: Everything I Know in 60 Slides - Wednesday, November 13 11:30am CT

• Tips for Teaching Your Board Members to Solicit Gifts - Wednesday, December 11 11:30am CT Both programs are free of charge.

Association of Partners for Public Lands 2401 Blueridge Avenue Suite 303 Wheaton, MD 20902 Phone: 301-946-9475 Fax: 301-946-9478 www.appl.org

november 2013 newswire

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