Wild Sanctuary wrote:
>
> As many might realize by now, the National Park Service recently
> designated natural soundscapes as a resource. This means, of course,
> that these biophonies must be protected by law per RM (Resource
> Manual) 47. Also, the NPS recently modified the requirements for
> recording sound in the U.S. national parks.
>
> As per DO (Director's Order) 53, the new rules have been relaxed
> quite a bit regarding necessary permits for recording. Basically,
> permits are no longer needed if the recordist does not disturb the
> wildlife or impede the enjoyment of other visitors. The "tripod" or
> commercial use rules are no longer in effect. Apparently, they were
> too difficult to enforce and were applied too unevenly across the
> board. There were many complaints and thus, the recent changes.
Good news indeed. I hope they follow up with educational programs and
access for sound.
My biggest beef is with a different part of the government, the
Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. There is virtually no access at
night, when frogs call. Except by going on a multi-day trip through the
swamp, a tough game and not that easy to arrange. I know they are afraid
of visitors getting eaten, but some of us do know about swamps at night.
I need to record some Carpenter Frogs, preferably in Georgia and the
Okefenokee is about the only place with the prolonged drought we have
been having.
Walt
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