Frequently Asked Questions About Yosemite

MISCELLANY

What is a national park?
Let's get a few things straight.
Why is sales tax charged in Yosemite?
Will rangers deliver messages to people?
How can I get a job in Yosemite?
What's the difference between the Yosemite Association, Yosemite Fund, and the Yosemite Institute?
How can I volunteer in Yosemite?

What is a national park?
A national park can only be created by a legislative act of the United States Congress. A national monument can be designated by a Presidential Executive Order. A national park is intended to preserve natural and/or cultural resources which are of national significance AND to provide for visitor enjoyment in a manner which will not damage park resources.

The National Park Service receives authority from the 1916 Organic Act. This enabling legislation states that the dual mission of the National Park Service is "to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner... as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations."

Yosemite was set aside for its natural features, scenic values, and cultural resources.

Let's get a few things straight.
When referring to the Sierra Nevada, "Sierra" (which means "mountain range" in Spanish) is grammatically correct, not "Sierras". When referring to a specific waterfall, say "Nevada Fall", not "Nevada Falls". The only major waterfall in the Valley which is comprised of more than one waterfall is Yosemite Falls (Upper Yosemite Fall, Middle Cascade, and Lower Yosemite Fall).

Why is sales tax charged in Yosemite?
The State of California had jurisdiction over Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove under the Yosemite Grant of 1864. In 1906, the Grant was given to the federal government, which allowed Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove to join Yosemite National Park (established in 1890). However, the State of California did not release certain aspects of its jurisdiction, including the right to collect sales tax and to require state fishing licenses.

Will rangers deliver messages to people?
Only if there is a true emergency. A message board is available inside the Valley Visitor Center which visitors can use during open hours. Messages can also be posted at the Tuolumne Meadows Store, the Wawona Store, and campgrounds throughout the park.

How can I get a job in Yosemite?
The National Park Service has long lead times for hiring. Direct inquiries to the NPS Personnel Office at (209) 379-1805. This office is located in El Portal across from the Post Office. All jobs and application materials are on the Internet at www.usajobs.opm.gov.

Yosemite Concession Services Personnel Office at (209) 372-1000 is in the YCS General Offices located next to the Yosemite Village Store.

The Yosemite Association primarily has summer jobs. For more information, call (209) 379-2646, or visit the Y.A. web site at: www.yosemite.org/aboutya/yajobs.htm

What's the difference between the Yosemite Association, Yosemite Fund, and the Yosemite Institute?
The Yosemite Association is a not-for-profit membership organization which is over 70 years old and is based in Yosemite. It operates under specific legislative guidelines. Proceeds return to the park and benefit education, research and environmental programs through purchases of equipment, supplies, and funding research and internship programs. Monies are generated through sales of books, etc. at visitor center outlets and through membership fees. Field seminars are available for members and the general public for a fee. Their office is in El Portal at (209) 379-2646.

The Yosemite Fund is a private, non-profit, independent foundation that works under a letter of agreement with the National Park Service to serve as the primary fundraising organization for Yosemite. The Fund's mission is to provide funding for projects that materially preserve or improve the quality of the natural, cultural, or historical resources in Yosemite or improve the visitor experience. Since 1986, the Fund has provided over $8 million to sponsor over 100 park
projects.

The Yosemite Institute is a private, non-profit educational organization operating in the park under a cooperative agreement with the National Park Service. YI offers residential field science programs for organized groups of children and adults coming to the park. YI's week-long programs introduce Yosemite's natural and cultural history and its resource issues to over 13,000 children and adults each year, reaching about 275 school groups.

How can I volunteer in Yosemite?
There are a number of ways to volunteer: the campground host program, the Volunteers in Parks (VIP) program and student internships. For more information contact the Volunteer Coordinator at (209) 379-1850.

The Yosemite Association offers its members unique volunteer opportunities in a number of different areas. To learn more about volunteering for the Yosemite Association, become a member if you're not already, visit their web site, contact them by e-mail, or call (209) 379-2317.