Historical themes traditionally had received secondary attention in the park’s overall interpretive program. To rectify this imbalance an Historical Studies Plan for the park was developed in 1979 by Vernon C. Tancil, Regional Historian of the NPS Pacific Northwest Office. The plan provided an analysis of Crater Lake’s historic resources and research needs around five principal themes in the park’s history. The five themes were identified as being (1) Great Plains Indians; (2) Discovery and Exploration; (3) Park Administration; (4) Visitor Use; and (5) Conservation. The plan included recommendations for park research including an historic resource study (completed in 1984), an administrative history, an historic structure preservation guide for Crater Lake Lodge, and a conservation study. [52]
The aforementioned interpretive prospectus was revised and updated by a new document prepared by the Harpers Ferry Center in May 1980. The objective of the new plan was to provide “a quality experience for short stay day users while providing some in-depth experiences for those with more time.” The revised prospectus identified two levels of interpretive involvement which should be available to park visitors:
. . . At the primary level is the purely sensory response to the size and beauty of the lake and its setting. To contribute to the atmosphere and mood, the landscape should be as natural and free of man-made facilities as possible. At this level, information and orientation is necessary, with easy access provided to various viewing points.
At the secondary level, interpretation will be provided for those visitors who become inquisitive about the lake’s creation. At the conceptual level, the interconnection, evolution, and protection of natural systems is the underlying theme of all interpretive programs.
With these objectives in mind the prospectus recommended updated proposals for interpretation at Rim Village and along Rim Drive and to a lesser extent at Cleetwood Cove, the Watchman, and park headquarters in Munson Valley. [53]
Since early 1987 a new interpretive facility has been operated in the rehabilitated Ranger Dormitory now named the Steel Center. Current park planning contemplates development of a new interpretive facility at the rim plus an alternative for developing exhibits on park history on the second floor of the lodge.
Appendix A16: Organization Of The Nature Guide Service, 1929
Appendix B16: List Of Interpretive Services, 1956
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