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Saline Warm Springs in the Saline Valley has been the site of informal clothing-optional use for decades. Throughout recent years, signage has clearly identified that historical usage. Now, however, the
Clothing-Optional sign has been removed on the order of Park Superintendent James T. Reynolds.
The Naturist Action Committee recognizes the importance of proper signage at clothing-optional areas on public land. The sign
at Saline Warm Springs must be restored, and NAC is specifically asking for you to help by contacting Superintendent Reynolds.
BACKGROUND
An aide in the office of Superintendent
Reynolds has been telling callers that the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) forbids nudity at the Springs. The aide's information is incorrect. Quoting from the Backcountry/Wilderness Field Guide prepared in 2000 specifically
by the staff of Death Valley National Park:
"A 'clothing optional' practice has existed at the Saline Valley Warm Springs for several decades. Such activity is not prohibited under 36 CFR; however, certain sections
of the California Penal Code could be applied if a complaint is lodged. The current policy of clothing optional use of the Saline Warm Springs will be allowed to continue; appropriate enforcement actions will be taken upon
complaint."
THE BENEFITS OF SIGNAGE
Signs at clothing-optional areas on public land are informational. They give visitors an idea of what to expect, and they help to
prevent user conflict. Despite the apparent concern of Superintendent Reynolds, informational signs alone do not constitute endorsement or designation of a particular activity or use.
The absence or removal of
informational signage where there is a history of a specific use encourages conflicts and complaints. Superintendent Reynolds has authorized a move that is clearly a step backward from avoidance of user conflict and a radical
departure from Park policy, as expressed in the Park's own Backcountry/Wilderness Field Guide.
SEPARATING TRUTH FROM RUMORS AND HOAXES
When the clothing-optional sign was taken
down at Saline Warm Springs, someone put up unauthorized signs proclaiming "No Nudity." Those signs were a hoax. They never had official backing and were soon removed.
When you contact the management of Death
Valley National Park, please do not mention the "No Nudity" hoax signs. That will only confuse the issue and dilute the effectiveness of your message.
NAC IS ASKING YOU TO TAKE ACTION!
The Naturist Action Committee asks all naturists and other concerned citizens to contact Superintendent Reynolds.
J.T. Reynolds
Superintendent
Death Valley National Park
P.O. Box 579
Death Valley, CA 92328
TEL: 760-786-3243
FAX: 760-786-3283
EMAIL: DEVA_Superintendent@nps.gov ..or.. jt_reynolds@nps.gov
NAC recommends that you make your
contact by written correspondence (postal mail or fax, with e-mail as a distant second choice in this instance). J.T. Reynolds is frequently away from his office, and telephone messages are too easily "lost" by
unsympathetic office staff.
WHAT TO SAY?
When you write to Superintendent Reynolds, please remember the following:
1 Be polite. Hostile or belittling letters create ill will and often overwhelm the actual message you need to convey.
2 Be brief. Make your point and send your letter.
3 Identify yourself. Anonymous letters are sometimes simply discarded.
4 If you have been a visitor to Death Valley National Park or to Saline Warm Springs, be sure to say so. Letters from those who haven't visited are also important. This is your park too!
5 Say clearly that you OPPOSE THE REMOVAL OF THE CLOTHING OPTIONAL SIGN AT SALINE WARM SPRINGS. Say clearly that you WISH TO SEE THE SIGN RE-INSTALLED.
6 Using your own words works best. If you need a few ideas, look at the sections above entitled BACKGROUND and THE BENEFITS OF SIGNAGE.
7 Be sure to thank Supt. Reynolds for his consideration. Sign and date your letter.
PLEASE CONTRIBUTE TO NAC
The Naturist Action Committee is the nonprofit volunteer political adjunct to The Naturist Society. NAC's mission is to advance and protect
the rights of naturists throughout North America. The organization relies entirely on voluntary donations from concerned naturists to allow it to continue its important operations.
Won't you please help NAC in this
crucial fight? Your contribution of any size is greatly appreciated. You may mail your donation to:
NAC
P.O. Box 132
Oshkosh, WI 54903
Call (800) 886-7230 to donate by phone using your MasterCard or Visa.
Thank you for choosing to make a difference!
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