STAFF

GOALS & OBJECTIVES
With over 17 million acres, the Navajo Nation encompasses the entire northeast quarter of the state of Arizona, and spills over into New Mexico and Utah.  Vast areas of pristine wilderness, majestic canyons, high mountain meadows, dry deserts, flatlands and blue skies characterize the land of the Navajo people.   Mid 20th century Navajo leaders recognized the need to preserve and conserve these lands for future generations for their enjoyment and spiritual well-being, and, in accordance with Navajo custom, to welcome visitors from all over the world. 

To be the custodian of these lands, the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department was established in 1964 and remains one of the oldest programs in the Navajo Nation government.  It faces tremendous challenges to accomplish its mandate to manage, protect and preserve these special areas because of the growing Navajo population, the need to promote economic and social opportunity for the people, and the huge number of visitors who come to see, learn and experience the wonders of the Navajo Nation.

To fulfill its responsibility to the Navajo Nation government and people, the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department shall:

• Continue its presence on the Navajo Nation as the trustee of special lands held for the common benefit of all Navajo people;
• Perform and carry out its role with due regard and respect for Navajo traditional values and customs;
• Listen and try to understand all perspectives and diverse points of view;
• Promote Navajo beliefs and values to the outside world;
• Strive for excellence, creativity and initiative in its operations;
• Treat all individuals with acceptance, integrity and respect; and
• Create enduring partnerships to foster conservation and preservation using innovative and traditional approaches.

HISTORY
The Navajo Parks and Recreation Department is one of the oldest programs in the Navajo Nation government.  It was established in 1964 and is charged with the responsibility to the the Navajo Nation's primary caretaker of special lands set aside for preservation.  The Mission of the Parks and Recreation Department is to wisely manage Navajo parks, monuments and recreation areas for the long-term benefit of the Navajo people and government. The Navajo Nation is comprised of essentially private lands, therefore all non-Navajo visitors must abide by and comply with the laws, regulations and policies promulgated by the Navajo Nation government, including those governing Navajo parks, monuments and recreation areas.

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

The Mission of the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department is to protect, preserve and manage tribal parks, monuments and recreation areas for the perpetual enjoyment and benefit of the Navajo Nation – the spectacular landscapes, buttes, canyons, clean air, diversity of plants and wildlife, and areas of beauty and solitude.