I have been involved in…

I have been involved in mountaineering since the age of 6, and rock climbing since 1995 with global climbing experience, and convened a Wilderness Search and Rescue team in the past.

Without exception, when climbing areas are officially recognized by authorities, a number of benefits accompanies the recognition.

1) Economic
The increased tourism generated by the rock-climbers and their friends, will undoubtedly be beneficial to the Beaver Valley area, as well as the towns on route form larger areas to Devil's Glen.
Some people from further away, or those planning extended visits will also benefit motels, hotels and camp grounds.

2) Environmental
Once areas are officially recognized, self regulation tends to follow, as climbers are quite sensitive to loosing climbing privileges at established climbing crags.
This often leads to cleaner areas, with climbers carrying out garbage, better management of parking areas, etc due to this self regulation in the climbing community.

3) Community Health
Climbing is an inclusive sport that is known to benefit both physical and mental well being.
Having out door recreational areas, where youth feel comfortable climbing, and not having to feel like they are participating in and frowned-upon activity in a restricted area, will do wonders for the future mental & physical health for the participants, who would potentially pass the positive feelings and spirit on to the larger community.

4) Increased Safety
Sport climbing rely on pre-placed steel bolts. These periodically require maintenance or replacement to ensure their safety.
Once an officially recognized area, these bolts can be more easily inspected, repaired or replaced, to ensure the safety of the climbers.