The Nation - News from June 2, 1988

National Park Service Director William Penn Mott Jr. opened the first conference of park superintendents in 12 years at Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming by warning that the state of America’s park system is “deplorable.” However, William P. Horn, the assistant Interior secretary for fish, wildlife and parks, and several superintenden1953701999Administration against charges parks have deteriorated. Mott told the 331 superintendents the park system faces growing threats from development, timber cutting and oil and gas exploration, as well as internal problems such as serious maintenance deficiencies. He said many “critical needs” have been deferred because of a lack of funding. But Horn said the park service’s operating budget had increased under President Reagan.