ABSTRACT

The focus of this case is Grand Canyon National Park but it can be used to discuss related issues of other national parks, public lands, or commonuse areas. This case can be used in leisure studies, tourism, and environmental programs as well as political science or public administration programs. Three main issues are discussed: user conflicts, noise pollution, and political barriers to sustainability. For a more thorough discussion of the political aspect of sustainability, this case could be taught along with the Waterton Lakes National Parks case or the Whale Watching case. The issues associated with the Grand Canyon can be used to show how two agencies of the government with very different mandates can work in opposite directions, making it difficult to reach a state of sustainability. Alternatively or in addition, the case can be used to expand the discussion about other types of user conflicts, controversial activities in national parks or common areas, and noise pollution in general.