YOSEMITE — Don Neubacher, who has been in charge of one of America’s most iconic national parks for over six years, has announced that he will resign, effective Nov. 1, amid allegations of a hostile workplace and harassment.
Neubacher, 63, is under investigation by a congressional oversight committee, and released this statement to staff on Wednesday:
Dear Yosemite Colleagues:
Today, during a discussion with the Regional Director, it was determined that new leadership was needed at Yosemite National Park. I was offered a detail in Denver as a Senior Advisor to Michael Reynolds, Deputy Director for the National Park Service. Since my home is in California, I have opted to retire effective November 1, 2016. I will be on leave effective immediately.
Over the course of the last six years, we have done incredible work together. The two controversial Wild and Scenic River Plans for the Merced River and Tuolumne River have been completed and approved. Mariposa Grove restoration is nearing completion; it is the culmination of our vision with incredible collaboration that is fitting for the birthplace of the National Park idea.
We also added the 400-acre Ackerson Meadow to Yosemite, a major Centennial gift to the national. And we have restored western pond turtles, Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep, and red-legged frogs to Yosemite National Park. For employees, we started together the Yosemite Leadership Academy and mentoring program. The list of accomplishments is much longer, but I wanted to keep this message brief. I regret leaving at this time, but want to do what’s best for Yosemite National Park.
It is an iconic area that is world renowned and deserves special attention. I appreciate all you have done for me, Yosemite and each other. Our employees, our park and our partners are some of the best in the nation. Thank you for your past support. With lasting respect and admiration,
Don Neubacher
For more in-depth reports, click below.
http://www.outsideonline.com/2118626/yellowstone-employee-sexual-harassment-rampant-park
Yosemite’s Superintendent to Step Down Amid Allegations of Sex-Based Harassment at National Park
