After speaking with Superintendent Oberuaga last week via teleconference, Rich Rudow received this letter clarifying the Park Service position on Deer Creek access.
Position Letter from Superintendent Uberuaga (click to download)
I think this is a very complicated issue that should probably be dealt with sooner rather then later. By complicated, I mean there are legal aspects to this discussion reaching far beyond the awareness of your typical canyoneer. The NPS is using available laws to their advantage. We, the outdoor community, also need to use these same laws to our benefit. The key in my opinion is to beat them at their own game. We need experts to get involved and help the cause, be it Outdoor Alliance or another organization that will help. There are far-reaching implications to what the NPS is doing, and we will live with the results for many years. Now is the time to get key players involved.