The decision about Yosemite's reservation system reaches far beyond administrative policy. It affects the future of one of America's most treasured landscapes, the experiences of millions of visitors, the health of an entire watershed, and the economic wellbeing of surrounding communities. A reservation system isn't about restricting access—it's about ensuring Yosemite can continue to inspire and provide transformative experiences for generations to come.

• Preserves Quality Visitor Experiences: During previous reservation periods, visitor satisfaction increased dramatically. Families spent less time in traffic and more time enjoying the park's natural wonders. A managed entry system ensures that when people arrive, they can find parking, experience some solitude on trails, and connect meaningfully with nature.

• Protects Fragile Ecosystems: Yosemite's alpine environments can take decades to recover from damage—if they recover at all. As the headwaters of the Tuolumne River, what happens in Yosemite affects the entire watershed. Controlled visitation reduces pollution from idling vehicles, minimizes wildlife disturbance, and prevents habitat degradation.

• Supports Sustainable Tourism: Evidence shows that reservation systems maintain overall visitation levels while spreading visitors more evenly throughout the season. Gateway businesses benefit from more predictable patterns, allowing for better staffing and resource allocation. Quality experiences lead to positive reviews and return visits, strengthening the long-term tourism economy.

• Fulfills the National Park Mission: The National Park Service exists to preserve these special places "unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations." Unchecked overcrowding directly threatens this core mandate. By implementing proven management tools, we ensure that Yosemite remains as awe-inspiring for our grandchildren as it was for our grandparents.

• Models Responsible Stewardship: As population growth increase pressure on public lands, how we manage our most popular parks sets a precedent. Yosemite's approach demonstrates that we can balance accessibility with protection—showing that loving a place means sometimes setting limits to ensure its health and beauty endure.