American Mountain Guides Association applauds introduction of Protect America’s Rock Climbing Act

March 9, 2023

Bill would protect guided rock and alpine climbing at wilderness areas around the country

Boulder, Colo. (March 9, 2023) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – The American Mountain Guides Association applauds the introduction of the Protect America’s Rock Climbing Act by Utah Rep. John Curtis (UT-03) and Colorado Rep. Joe Neguse (CO-02). The bill will preserve access to thousands of rock climbing routes in wilderness areas across the country.

“Climbing guides rely upon climbing fixed anchors to provide safety-oriented, high-quality climbing experiences for the public in America’s wilderness areas such as the North Cascades, Joshua Tree National Park, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison,” said Matt Wade, Deputy Director of the American Mountain Guides Association. “The Protect America’s Rock Climbing Act will ensure climbing guides are able to continue providing exceptional outdoor experiences for the public at a time when more and more Americans are seeking to experience the enjoyment, challenge, and connection to the natural world that is unique to rock climbing in wilderness areas. The American Mountain Guides Association thanks Representatives John Curtis and Joe Neguse for introducing this important legislation.”

Representatives Curtis and Neguse both represent districts with extensive guided climbing opportunities, large climbing communities, and economies that depend on the $12 billion climbing industry. “In Utah, recreation on public lands is a large and ever-growing industry,” says Congressman Curtis. “Ensuring access to these lands is vital not just for our economy, but also to ensure the millions of Americans who enjoy rock climbing can fully explore our nation’s national treasures.”

“Colorado’s natural areas are home to some world-renowned rock climbing locations. By requiring additional agency guidance on climbing management, we are taking steps to protect our climbers and the spaces in which they recreate,” says Congressman Neguse. “I am thankful to Rep. Curtis for his continued partnership in our efforts to bolster outdoor recreation, and am glad to join him in introducing this legislation.”

The American Mountain Guides Association looks forward to working with Representatives Curtis and Neguse to pass this critical legislation that will preserve access to world-class guided climbing opportunities in wilderness areas around the country.

About American Mountain Guides Association

The American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) is a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit organization that provides training and certification for climbing instructors, mountain guides, and ski guides throughout the United States. Founded in 1979, the AMGA institutes international standards for the mountain guiding profession and serves as an educational body for land management agencies, guide services, outdoor clubs, and others wishing to establish internationally-recognized standards for guided climbing and skiing activities. The advocacy arm of the AMGA supports sustainable use of public lands, facilitates stewardship opportunities, and works in cooperation with guides and land managers to preserve access to areas utilized by the guided public.