Exploring the Options in Yosemite

Re “Yosemite Debates the Nurturing of Nature,” April 17: Thank you for presenting more than one viewpoint on current projects in Yosemite.

As an 18-year park resident, I would like to add to the information in this article by clarifying a few points about the “renovation” project at Lower Yosemite Falls: The parking lot is not really gone -- it has simply been moved.

Although the old bathroom needed to be replaced, the massive new one has been built atop an archeological site valued by Yosemite’s Indian people. The new asphalt trail looping east through pines and cedars may increase visitor access; however, there was direct access to the base of Yosemite Falls for people with disabilities before this $13.5-million project was even initiated.

Bridget McGinniss Kerr

El Portal, Calif.

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Once again, we have a small minority of nature lovers, effete elitists of the great outdoors, who want to impose their own vision on our national parks, regardless of how the far larger taxpaying public may wish to enjoy these public lands.

It is precisely this exclusive attitude that prevents funding of our national parks by the general public, who do not feel that it serves them.

If the nature lovers want a secluded nature experience, there is plenty of backcountry to explore and enjoy, usually within only a few miles of the main track.

As for the many who cannot do so: the elderly, the handicapped, families with small children, tourists on a tight schedule or simply those who do not want to do extensive trekking, they can enjoy these wonders in their own way.

The fact is the more of the general public that can enjoy our national parks, the greater the numbers will be to support them for the future, which should be what the nature lovers want, right?

Maude Ham

Burbank