Local Government Management Internship Program 2008

After meeting with the National Park Service on June 24th, 2008 I am able to more accurately gauge the challenges this project will involve. Not only were the marina director and interns I met helpful, but each had a very objective standing on the National Seashore. Visitation levels were discussed along with suggestions on how to improve the current decrease of thirty-four percent. Most importantly, the National Park Service stressed their ultimate mission of protecting Cumberland Island’s natural resources while allowing individuals to visit and enjoy its treasures. Timothy Stone, the current superintendent of the park, was particularly helpful answering many of the questions about the environmental impact of an increase in attendance. In addition, the City of Fernandina and the City of St. Marys will soon be exploring and examining how each community will be impacted and what type of effort will be required in order for access from Fernandina to be worthwhile. This past Friday a select group from Fernandina made a trip to St. Marys and Cumberland, explaining the benefits that Fernandina had to offer to each community. This trip was crucial to providing direct evidence on how much of an asset the Cumberland National Seashore could be if only more were educated on its unique beauty. A triangle taxi system between the three communities could only benefit St. Marys, Cumberland, and Fernandina, since locals and tourists would have an opportunity that is currently unavailable. Progress is expected to continue, with many individuals in each community curious as to what positive result this access will bring. Further analysis and a survey will be conducted to determine pressing factors that will show substantial significance in obtaining access.