GGNRA boss vows to reform Grand Canyon National Park workplace

The departing head of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area vowed that a priority of her new job in the top position at the Grand Canyon National Park would be to usher in reforms amid a district-wide sexual misconduct scandal that prompted the resignation of her predecessor.

In January, the Department of the Interior’s Office of Inspector General released an investigative report on Grand Canyon National Park River District that found “evidence of a long-term pattern of sexual harassment and hostile work environment” in the Grand Canyon district.

Superintendent David Uberuaga was not accused of harassing employees but was criticized for his reportedly weak response to harassment claims from employees.

“Together with the staff and managers at the park, I look forward to keeping up momentum on the important conservation, preservation and operational activities at the Grand Canyon,” Lehnertz said in a statement.

Colleagues and work associates reacted to Lehnertz’s Bay Area departure, including Neal Desai, the National Parks Conservation Association director of field operations.

Chris brings outstanding leadership skills and an outsider’s perspective to the National Park Service.

Since she joined the NPS, she has helped us think differently about conservation, preservation, employee engagement and public collaboration, he said.