The Role of the 32 IM Networks in Resource Assessments and Performance Management Steve Fancy, National Monitoring Prog

3. Tell the public about the condition of park resources and how well we�re managing the parks �for it is the broader public that will decide the fate of the resources�; Tell Superintendents and other park staff (most of whom are not scientists) about the status & trends in the condition of natural resources; Demonstrate to OMB and DOI officials that taxpayer dollars are well spent towards meeting the NPS mission �unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations�

4. The Relationship between Changes in Condition and Funding/Effort is Not Straightforward You may spend lots of $$ controlling invasive species, and yet the condition gets worse; but if you hadn�t done any control, you might have �lost� the park�s resources altogether Measurable changes in condition may take many years to decades to show up, even where management is very effective Some parks start Yellow and will always be Yellow; restoration is not economically or logistically feasible.

13. Park Condition Assessments (Coordinate the Timing as Much as Possible) 32 I&M Networks � Routine data collection and analysis. Annual summary reports to parks. Analyze priority data collected by others and deliver to parks. Trend analysis, synthesis, integrative reports as scheduled. Promote good data management practices among network parks (easier to find existing data). Provides local expertise for WCA and NPCA assessment efforts; local expertise to assist park managers and planners.