Chapter 4 Public involvement and consultation efforts were ongoing throughout the process of preparing this general management plan. Public involvement methods included Federal Register notices, news releases, public Public Involvement meetings and workshops, invited presentations at special interest group meetings, individual meetings and Consultation with interested publics, newsletter mailings, and website postings. An extensive level of public involvement was deemed necessary for the success of the planning project. This chapter provides information about each public involvement period and summarizes public comments received by the NPS during each phase. It also provides a summary of public comments and ideas related to specific projects and programs that can be used to implement the general management plan.

A “notice of intent” to prepare a environmental internees and their families live in numerous cities impact statement / general management plan for and towns throughout Washington, Oregon, and Minidoka Internment National Monument was Alaska. The NPS determined it was necessary to published in the Federal Register on April 24, 2002 outreach to these geographically diverse communi- (Volume 67, Number 79, page 20163). In the ties, because they wanted to hear from the people spring of 2002, the NPS organized an interdiscipli- that were the principal subjects of the national nary planning team consisting of staff at monument. The NPS also conducted informal Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, staff at meetings with local and adjacent landowners as the NPS Pacific West Region, and subject area ex- well as local and federal government officials. Ap- perts from Idaho and Washington to begin the first proximately 50 meetings were held in Idaho, general management plan for the national monu- Washington, Oregon, and Alaska during this time, ment. and a total of approximately 1000 people were contacted. Preceding the formal planning process, NPS staff in Idaho and Washington conducted informational The majority of people who attended these meet- meetings about the national monument with po- ings were former internees and their family mem- tential stakeholder groups, organizations, various bers from the Nikkei community. Meetings were government entities, and individuals during the held in local meeting halls, churches, and locations spring, summer, and early fall of 2002. This extra familiar and convenient for community members. level of public involvement was deemed necessary The purpose of these meetings was to introduce given the nature and sensitivity of the national the NPS to these groups, describe the national A former internee returning to monument’s history, the speed in which the na- monument’s conditions and how it became an NPS Minidoka during tional monument was established, and the national unit, discuss the GMP/EIS process, and develop rela- the Pilgrimage. June 2004. NPS Photo. monument’s remote location. Additionally, former tions with these community groups and individual

Public Involvement and Consultation 91 stakeholders. Through these meetings, the NPS mer of 2005. 4,600 newsletters that summarized was able connect with large numbers of people the draft GMP/EIS and 900 copies of the draft who were directly and indirectly impacted by GMP/EIS were mailed to the public. The NPS held Minidoka during World War II. Additionally, com- ten public meetings in Idaho, Washington, Oregon, munity members provided suggestions about when and California. and where to hold the formal public scoping work- In June 2006, the Minidoka Internment National shops, so as to attract a wide variety of interested Monument Abbreviated Final General Management individuals. These informational meetings estab- Plan/Environmental Impact Statement was released Public scoping workshop in Eden. lished an invaluable foundation for the formal pub- to the public. The abbreviated final GMP/EIS in- November 2002. NPS Photo. lic planning process. cluded changes made to the draft GMP/EIS, a sum- The first official public engagement period began mary of public comments received during the draft with scoping in the fall of 2002. The NPS published GMP/EIS public comment period, and NPS re- and mailed 4,600 newsletters, conducted nine pub- sponses to substantive public comments. lic workshops in Idaho, Washington, and Oregon, and received comments during a 90-day public comment period. Following public scoping, a sec- ond newsletter was released to the public which Public Scoping “Your story should be told in ev- summarized the public comments. ery classroom and remembered The official public process began in October 2002 in the halls of government in ev- The second public engagement period, an addi- when the NPS produced and mailed Newsletter ery generation. Your story re - tional step in the formal planning process, was the Number 1 to approximately 2,000 people on the minds us of the mistakes of the implementation of draft alternatives public work- past so that we do not repeat national monument’s mailing list. Another 2,500 shops and a 90-day comment period held in July them. But it also reminds us of the newsletters were sent in packets to organizations, and August of 2003. A newsletter was distributed strength of the human spirit. It re - libraries, and public locations in Idaho, Washington, to the public that summarized the draft alterna- minds us that we are one people . Oregon, Alaska, California and at potential stake- tives. Eleven public workshops introduced the draft . . all Americans—regardless of holder groups in cities throughout the U.S. The alternatives to the public, and the NPS received color, religion, or ethnic back - newsletter announced the establishment of the public comments that assisted in refining the alter- ground. And it reminds us of the national monument, the function of the GMP/EIS, natives. freedoms and opportunities that and an outline of the planning steps including we must always cherish.” The final phase of public engagement was 90-day dates, time, and locations for the public work- - Idaho Governor, Dirk Kempthorne, comment period on the Minidoka Internment Na- shops. The primary purpose of the newsletter was declaring February 19 an Idaho Day to encourage participation and comment on critical of Remembrance tional Monument Draft General Management Plan/ Environmental Impact Statement during the sum- issues that should be addressed in the GMP/EIS.

92 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan The newsletter contained a business reply ques- Workshops tionnaire that asked six questions related to the The NPS held nine public scoping workshops in national monument’s purpose, significance, inter- Idaho, Washington and Oregon in November 2002. pretive themes, desired future conditions, and The workshops began with an open house and pre- general issues and concerns. Information about sentation and then transitioned into small facili- the planning process, scoping, and opportunities tated groups. Workshop participants were asked for involvement were posted on the NPS website about the purpose, significance, issues, and their (www.nps.gov/miin). ideas related to Minidoka. Meetings were held in Local and regional newspapers and radio stations Eden, ID; Twin Falls, ID; Ontario, OR; Bainbridge Is- throughout the planning area were used to dis- land, WA; Seattle, WA; and Portland, OR. 227 seminate information on the GMP/EIS, planning people attended the meetings overall. process and the draft alternatives. A Federal Reg- ister notice, dated November 19, 2002 extended Written Comments the scoping period until December 31, 2002 due to Approximately 225 written responses were col- the extent of public interest. Ads were placed in lected through e-mails submitted to the project the following newspapers: Argus Observer, Ontario, Inbox: [email protected], the business reply ques- Oregon; Bainbridge Island Review, Bainbridge Is- tionnaire inserts in the newsletters, written letters, land, Washington; Oregonian, Portland, Oregon; and packets of information that were mailed to the Post-Intelligencer, Seattle, Washington; Seattle Times, Seattle, Washington; Times-News, Twin Falls, Idaho, and Yuuyake Shimbun, Portland, Oregon. Short articles were published in the following com- munity newsletters: Buddhist Temple, Seattle, Washington; Japanese Baptist Church, Seattle, Washington; Nisei Veterans Committee, Seattle, Washington; Japanese American Citizens League, Portland Chapter, Oregon; and the Wing Luke Asian Museum, Seattle, Washington. Press releases were prepared and mailed on October 21, 2002, by the NPS, Pacific West Region- Seattle Office.

Planning team members, Lilly Kodama and Rene Senos, at Minidoka during wintertime. November 2003. NPS Photo.

Public Involvement and Consultation 93 NPS at the Hagerman Fossil Beds NM headquar- ters. The vast majority of written comments were Summary of Scoping Comments received from Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. Ad- ditionally, comments were received from through- The following summary of comments was pub- out the U.S., including 27 from California; 16 from lished in the second newsletter that was produced New York; 8 from Texas; 6 from Ohio; 5 each from and mailed to the public in March 2003. The pur- Arizona, Maryland, and Pennsylvania; 4 each from pose of this newsletter was to summarize both the Illinois, Florida, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin; written and verbal comments received during the 3 each from Kansas, Massachusetts, and Utah; 2 scoping period and that should be addressed in the each from Colorado, Indiana, Louisiana, MI, Ne- GMP/EIS planning process. vada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, South Carolina, Vermont, and Virginia, and 1 each from Alaska, The comments received covered a broad range of Georgia, Kentucky, Montana, North Carolina, issues, concerns, personal experiences, and recom- Puerto Rico, South Dakota, and Tennessee. mendations for the national monument. When compiled, over 120 different comments or ideas were represented. Because various statements or ideas were mentioned repeatedly, similar comments are stated once, but the number of times a particu- lar point was made has been tabulated. This Table 5: Public Scoping Workshops 2002 method highlights the comments that people stated Location Date Attendance were most important and needed to be addressed Eden, ID at the national monument. However, each com- Senior Citizen Center 11/12/2002 10 Twin Falls, ID ment was recorded and an attempt was made to College of Southern Idaho 11/13/2002 23 incorporate all concerns and ideas into the public Ontario, OR scoping summary. All the input was very useful to Four Rivers Cultural Center 11/14/2002 10 Bainbridge Island, WA the planning team and was utilized in the develop- Bainbridge Island Commons 11/18/2002 24 ment of the GMP. Seattle, WA Nisei Veterans Hall 11/19/2002 42 The following summary provides a description of University of Washington 11/19/2002 12 the public comments received by the NPS during Japanese Baptist Church 11/20/2002 26 Seattle Buddhist Temple 11/21/2002 23 the scoping phase of the planning project. Portland, OR Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center 11/22/2002 57 TOTAL 227

94 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan should provide an accurate depiction of the plight of Nikkei and resident aliens during this period in “I hope Minidoka will be a American history. Commenters thought Minidoka place where people find should be portrayed as it was – an internment another story of the war camp or concentration camp, not a summer camp. and broaden their points of Many felt Minidoka was a concentration camp, view.” -Public Comment while others believed that term was inaccurate. Re- gardless, most agreed Minidoka was a place where lives were forever changed as a result of racism, prejudice, politics, economics and wartime hysteria.

The public consistently mentioned that interpreta- tion must provide insight into the Nikkei experience Public scoping workshop at the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center in before, during and after internment and incarcera- Portland. November 2002. NPS Photo. tion. They wanted it made clear that prior to in- Issues and Concerns ternment and incarceration these were hard-work- ing people – the majority of whom were American Interpretation of the Internment and citizens. Many had made significant contributions Incarceration Story to their communities and their country over many The vast majority of comments related to how the decades. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, they Minidoka internment and incarceration story were forced to abandon all they had worked for should be interpreted and presented to the public. and were incarcerated in an unfamiliar and deso- Most of the public thought the national monument late place. is an important piece of America’s history that must Many from the public stated it is important for the be effectively interpreted. Many of the respondents national monument to explain the Nikkei culture felt there are misconceptions and a general lack of and to convey why they reacted the way they did. understanding on behalf of the public regarding Former internees described how they were raised in the internment and incarceration story. a culture where authority was not questioned. At The overriding sentiments highlighted the national the time, no one suspected the internment and in- monument’s importance of conveying the message carceration ordeal would be as trying or long last- that internment and incarceration was a mistake ing. As a result of internment and incarceration, and a major violation of constitutional and civil many families suffered significant financial losses. rights. The majority of respondents felt the site

Public Involvement and Consultation 95 Internees thought the NPS should accurately de- Combat Team, Military Intelligence Service, and scribe how internment and incarceration affected Nikkei in the Women’s Army Corps. They cited the people in different ways. Many expressed that it is fact that the 442nd is the most decorated unit in important for people to understand that for Issei American military history, for its size and length of (Japanese immigrants) and Nisei (American first service. Compared to other camps, disproportion- born generation), the internment and incarceration ately large numbers of Minidoka men and women experience was wrought with hopelessness and un- volunteered for military. certainty. They described how internment and incar- Others thought that it is important that the federal ceration resulted in the deterioration of the family government’s loyalty questionnaires and the story unit. Their daily lives and routines were altered. of the “No-No” boys be presented. The public Meals were not eaten together. Many recall the consistently stated the impact the questionnaires psychological impact that the decline of traditional (questions 27 and 28) had on internees. The confu- mother/father roles had on their parents. However, sion, misunderstanding and differences of opinions some of the former internees described the experi- associated with the questionnaires resulted in the ence as some of the best days of their lives, where separation of families and removal of many Mini- the breakdown of family structure provided ample doka internees to Tule Lake Segregation Center in opportunity for socializing and fun. Many people Public scoping Public scoping northern California. workshop in Twin workshop on stated that the camps brought Nikkei together. Falls. November Bainbridge Island. Several respondents believed there is a need for the 2002. NPS Photo. November 2002. The public often mentioned how internees made Minidoka story to include all who were impacted by (Top) NPS Photo. the most of a difficult situation. In the camps a va- (Bottom) internment and incarceration, including camp staff, riety of art forms flourished including literature, their families, military personnel, area farmers and painting, crafts, and furniture-making. Internees the outlying community. Several people recalled also made significant advancements in farming and how sympathetic Caucasians and Nikkei who were agricultural practices and aided local farmers. not in the camps helped the internees. Others Some referred to the cleared land and agriculture stated it is important to tell the story of what hap- seen at the site today as the legacy of the camp’s pened to the camp buildings and land after the internees. camp was abandoned. Comments conveyed that in spite of their circum- Many thought that it is important to convey how stances, the vast majority of internees remained pa- after the internment and incarceration, Nikkei went triotic Americans. Many of the respondents thought on to lead successful and productive lives. Some in- that it is very important the Minidoka story include ternees mentioned that internment and incarcera- the contributions of the 100th/442nd Regimental tion actually opened up new opportunities for

96 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan Nikkei, and that it had positive affects as well. our democracy and to understand the fragility of Other internees wanted the NPS to express the sac- democracy. Numerous respondents expressed con- rifices that these generations of Nikkei made for cern that if the nation isn’t vigilant, America could “Liberty and freedom are the betterment of future generations. Several very easily repeat the same mistake. Parallels were not to be taken for granted; people suggested the internment and incarcera- drawn between the experiences of Nikkei during there must be constant tion story include the presidential apology and Re- World War II and those of Muslim and Arab Ameri- vigilance in safe-guarding civil liberties.” dress. cans today. -Public Comment Many members of the public felt strongly that the Recollections of the Minidoka Relocation national monument and the internment and incar- Center ceration story must also include many perspectives “Minidoka is not only con- presented in the context of World War II. Some in- Even after the passage of some 60 years, there cerned with Japanese dividuals expressed concern that interpretation fully were many images that remained vivid in the minds American people but also with all American describes the historical context of the internment of former internees. When asked to recall signifi- people.”-Public Comment and incarceration, including the rationale and justi- cant aspects of the camp, barbed wire fencing, fication that the federal government used during guard towers, barracks, and armed guards were the the historic period. Some individuals also believed elements of everyday life that they most remem- bered. Others recalled less ominous elements of the “The significance state- that the internment and incarceration was fully jus- ments must emphasize the camp such as the canal and the swimming hole. tified, stating that it was necessary for the protec- historic context of the in- Several people described how normal aspects of ev- tion of the Nikkei community and to ensure na- ternment, that it was eryday life continued despite incarceration, includ- tional security during wartime. found constitutional by a ing births, marriages, and deaths. Others described misguided legal system, A few people felt strongly that there should be no how community and school activities played a ma- that these cases were sub- national monument at all. They stated that numer- jor role in people’s lives. Sports, music, dances, the- sequently overturned, that ous World War II camps and bases have not re- atrical performances and community government the entire Japanese Ameri- ceived the same recognition. were common activities. can community is vitally concerned that it would The Message Cultural Resources never happen to another group again and how ulti- Of utmost importance to the public was the need Many of the former internees referred to the site mately, the Congress and for the internment and incarceration story to relate as hallowed ground, where the need to protect the President saw fit to to modern day issues of individual freedom and existing resources is of great importance. Time and apologize and provide res - civil rights. Many stated that Minidoka should stand time again, the public stated how important it is to titution.”-Public Comment in testament to how critical it is for all Americans capture oral histories while there is still time. to uphold the ideals that form the foundation of

Public Involvement and Consultation 97 Visitor Experience several respondents. They thought that it is impor- “The site should preserve The public recognized that the site’s remote loca- tant that the building(s), site improvements and all threads that made the tion presents unique challenges. First and fore- parking facilities should be appropriate for the site site what it was- govern- most, those that had visited Minidoka agreed that and not intrude upon or impact the remains of the mental, moral, ethical, the signage and way finding to the site needs sig- camp. cultural, social, etc. and nificant improvement. In addition, the public should be interpreted in an Several members of the community expressed thought the NPS should define how it is going to honest way without sacri- concerns about how the national monument might draw people to visit the site. Several respondents ficing or sparing the visitor impact their life styles or inconvenience the adja- mentioned the lack of nearby lodging or camping of any crucial emotional cent residents. They were particularly concerned for potential visitors. or political aspects.” about any potential changes to existing access and -Public Comment The public consistently stated the need to provide traffic generated by the national monument. Spe- a variety of educational experiences for visitors of cifically, respondents did not want the flow of traf- fic restricted for area residents living around the “Try to include informa- all ages. Most thought education and learning national monument, as well as agricultural traffic tion about the nation’s per- should be the primary mission of the national that uses Hunt Road. ceptions of Japanese monument. Others felt the national monument Americans; you must bal- should be a place of emotional healing. Public comments at a scoping workshop. ance the need of explaining Former internees suggested that modern im- the mindset that allowed provements – including roads and buildings not internment without seem- ing to excuse or justify it.” present at the camp during internment and -Public Comment incarceration – make the camp unrecogniz- able. Others thought the 72.75 acres is insuf- ficient to properly portray the camp and to “The stories of the so- interpret the national monument. called, ‘No No Boys’ A few of the respondents didn’t want the should not be overlooked. They represent some very site to change at all. They thought the land- courageous and principled scape and national monument is appropriate young adults who suffered as it presently exists. a second layer of injustice for their questioning the Facilities definition of ‘loyalty.’” The size and design of the potential new na- -Public Comment tional monument facilities were of concern to

98 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan Collections Operations/Management Former internees mentioned that they have artifacts There was general concern over how to protect the “The site should preserve and memorabilia to donate. Some of these poten- site’s resources. Many thought the national monu- all threads that made the site what it was- govern- tial donors indicated a desire for their collections to ment should have a full-time onsite staff to watch mental, moral, ethical, remain connected and accessible to former internee over the property and perform routine mainte- cultural, social, etc. and families and communities. Some thought the na- nance. Several people expressed concern over van- should be interpreted in an tional monument should establish a plan for artifact dalism and defacing the national monument. honest way without sacri- preservation, and what should be exhibited and Area residents emphasized the lack of utilities and ficing or sparing the visitor used for interpretation. (An Interim Scope of Col- community services available in the area. The avail- of any crucial emotional lections Plan was approved in June 2004.) or political aspects.” ability of water, fire protection and emergency -Public Comment medical services were particularly worrisome. Connections Off-Site A number of people thought it is important to Other less frequently mentioned issues ranged from “Try to include informa- make the connection between Minidoka and the the need to advertise the national monument to tion about the nation’s per- other camps and assembly centers so people under- concern over adequate funding to develop and ceptions of Japanese stand the whole story. Another issue was how to maintain the facility. Several people suggested that Americans; you must bal- a coordinated effort to preserve all the camps tell the story off-site in Seattle, Portland and other ance the need of explaining should be initiated so that individual internment parts of the country where people were heavily af- the mindset that allowed and incarceration sites will not compete for funding fected by internment and incarceration. internment without seem- and political capital. ing to excuse or justify it.” Environmental Issues Residents in eastern Jerome County and adjacent -Public Comment The public raised questions regarding water quality, landowners expressed concerns about impacts that water sources, the historic, present and future use the national monument will have on their property, “The stories of the so- of water, and the rights associated with surface wa- life style and community. Several adjacent landown- called, ‘No No Boys’ ter and groundwater at the site. It was suggested ers were especially concerned that any significant should not be overlooked. that historic uses or activities may have included increase in visitation and development at the site They represent some very underground fuel storage, chemical storage, coal would create conflicts between visitors, their private courageous and principled disposal, septic and wastewater treatment, and property, agricultural activities, vehicular traffic, and young adults who suffered dumping. Inquiries were also made concerning po- a general negative impact on their existing way of a second layer of injustice tential contaminants and the environmental im- life. Some stated that they already experience for their questioning the pacts historic uses had on groundwater and soil at trespass from visitors onto their property and definition of ‘loyalty.’” the site. those conflicts and divergent uses would only in- -Public Comment crease as the national monument develops.

Public Involvement and Consultation 99 Partnerships bus, and driving tours. A visitor center, a partial re- “Minidoka was part of my Some people expressed concern over how the na- construction of the camp, interpretive signage and childhood, I would like to tional monument will cooperate with and impact memorials were also frequently suggested. Some of see my grandkids under- the Jerome County Historical Society and the Idaho the respondents wanted the national monument to stand what happened Farm and Ranch Museum. provide a living history component. there, not have it forgot- ten.” -Public Comment A few individuals wanted the ‘complete story’, Suggestions which was typically a reference to the arguments The public had many suggestions about how the that supported the internment and incarceration Minidoka internment and incarceration story should actions. be presented at the national monument. These sug- Some people requested that information be pro- gestions ranged from broad management proposals vided in Japanese as well as English. to specific ideas for programming and displays. Al- most all agreed that a visit to Minidoka should be a Visitor Center memorable and educational experience. The vast majority of respondents stated it is impor- Visitor Experience tant that the national monument include a year- round visitor center. The public’s vision for the visi- Time and time again, we heard how the Minidoka tor center was quite diverse and included facilities story should personalize the experience of the in- common and uncommon to national monuments. ternees. Some stated they want to be sure the visi- Some of the suggested facilities included a mu- tor is emotionally impacted by what they learn dur- seum, a library, a conference center, a race relations ing their visit. research center or an Asian American think-tank. Several people suggested the internees’ arrival ex- Specific recommendations for the center included perience should be replicated for the visitor utilizing artifact displays, photographs, interpretive exhibits, buses. People felt the gated entry should be clearly audio-visual programs (documentaries), and a scale expressed to the visitor. The remains of the camp model of the camp. The public suggested the inter- check-in (military police building and reception pretive programs be updated regularly so visitors building) could be restored and used as part of the will want to return. Some wanted a website cre- arrival experience. ated to obtain information from former internees. Most people thought the national monument Several people suggested the visitor center incor- should provide a diversity of visitor experiences, in- porate the latest computer simulation and virtual cluding self guided interpretive trails, and walking, reality capabilities – possibly providing a virtual

100 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan tour of the camp as it existed during WWII, com- the methods used to create a semblance of nor- plete with howling winds and frigid temperatures. malcy, cramped conditions, schools, and poor medical attention. Many of the internees recalled Camp Reconstruction the food with particular disdain, saying their diet “The site should be paved over with no markers or Most of the public agreed the national monument consisted of foods (Vienna sausages, mutton) that were unfamiliar to Nikkei. plaques, just like all the old visitor should get a sense of the physical size and abandoned military look of Minidoka without complete reconstruction Time and time again, the respondents expressed camps.” -Public Comment of the entire 33,000-acre camp. However, there the importance of having a barrack or even a com- was an array of reconstruction ideas for the 72.75- plete reconstruction of a block of barracks to de- acre site. The public thought that the facilities pict the typical living conditions. They felt the “Don’t forget to tell the sto- should be appropriate for the site, nonintrusive, barrack(s) should be complete with a potbellied ries of the area’s residents and not impact the remains of the camp. stove, cots, clotheslines, and cracks between the and how they viewed Hunt and the Japanese. An ‘out- tar paper walls and plank flooring. In addition to The vast majority of comments addressed how im- side looking in’ aspect is the barracks, many described the crude communal portant it is for the visitor to get a feel for the important to discover and restroom facilities as a critical component to the camp as it existed during the historic period. Many interpret.” -Public Comment felt the need for an authentic experience where depiction of camp living. the visitor gets an accurate understanding of the Many people made suggestions for additional uses day-to-day life and routines in the camp, including of the reconstructed barracks. These uses included “Future generations are stronger if they know and NPS staff housing, guest housing, conference hous- understand what hap- ing, and a Boy Scout camp. pened in the past.” -Public Comment Significant Camp Features to be Restored Many of the former internees recalled features or “Please consider how the aspects of the camp that were significant and site will serve future gen- which they felt should be considered at the na- erations and will be able to tional monument. These features included the adapt to changing times guard towers, root cellar, swimming hole, water beyond our lifetime.” tower, and the barbed wire fence. -Public Comment

Honor Roll, Garden and Cemetery

Public scoping workshop at the Nisei Veterans Hall in Seattle. Of importance to the public was the reconstruction November 2002. NPS Photo. of the honor roll in its original location. Others felt

Public Involvement and Consultation 101 the national monument should include a memorial and outdoor picnic area. Some people disagreed, listing all who were incarcerated at Minidoka. Ex- saying they don’t want the site commercialized ample monuments suggested include the Japanese with vending or other amusements. “The area surrounding the American Historical Plaza in Portland and the Viet- site looks so lush and green nam Veteran’s Memorial in Washington, D.C. The Partnerships and Outreach with irrigation and pros- public also felt it is important to reconstruct the perous crops. It didn’t look Many of the respondents made suggestions for garden and to establish a place for quiet reflection like that when my people possible partnership opportunities. Suggested part- and meditation. Another recommendation was that came.”-Public Comment ners included the Wing Luke Asian Museum, the national monument permanently displays an Densho Project, Japanese American National Mu- “My greatest concern American flag at half-staff. seum, Jerome County Historical Society and Idaho would be to make sure the Farm and Ranch Museum, Four River’s Cultural history and the stories are National Monument Facilities Center in Ontario, Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center, captured.”-Public Comment The public suggested a variety of facilities they University of Washington and University of Califor- wanted to include at or near the national monu- nia at Davis. The public repeatedly stated how little “A provocative and vigor- ment. Many thought it is important to provide younger generations of Americans know about the ous education program overnight lodging nearby such as motels or RV/tent internment and incarceration story and the exist- should be undertaken by campsites. A few respondents suggested the na- ence of the camps. They emphasized how impor- the National Park Service tional monument include a gift shop, restaurant tant it is to bring the internment and incarceration to impress the public, par- story to the classroom, not only for school children ticularly those living in the greater Pacific Northwest, near the national monument, but as an essential and school administra - component of the curriculum of all American chil- tors, that Minidoka is a dren. place worth visiting… and a place for reflective edu - cation.”-Public Comment

“Fill up a barracks room with five cots, straw-filled mattress bags, our cloth- ing, and have them see how much living space was left.” -Public Comment Public scoping workshop at the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center in Portland. November 2002. NPS Photo.

102 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan process was to understand the public’s concerns Draft Alternatives Public Process and preferences with regard to the range of draft alternatives and to assist the planning team in re- “Every person should feel fining the draft alternatives and selecting a pre- he’s worthwhile and pro - The Draft Alternatives public process was an addi- ferred alternative. ductive. No person should tional step to ensure the public fully comprehended be shackled with a feeling the range of draft alternatives and was able to The official draft alternatives public process began of guilt without reason.” comment effectively on these draft alternatives. A in July 2003 when the NPS produced and mailed -Public Comment primary purpose of this additional formal public Newsletter Number 3 to approximately 2,500

Paper flowers made by internees. Circa 1944. National Archives.

Public Involvement and Consultation 103 people on the national monument’s mailing list. iner, Seattle, Washington; North American Post, “As one not of Japanese de- Another 2500 newsletters were sent in packets to Seattle, Washington; Oregonian, Portland, Oregon; scent, but someone who organizations, libraries, and public locations in Post-Intelligencer, Seattle, Washington; and Se- cherishes history… the Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Alaska, California and attle Times, Seattle, Washington. Short articles preservation of historical at potential stakeholder groups in cities throughout were published in the following community news- artifacts and documenta- the U.S. Information about the planning process, letters: Nisei Veterans Committee, Seattle, Washing- tion would be the top on the draft alternatives, and opportunities for involve- ton; Japanese American Citizens League, Seattle my ‘must be done’ list.” ment were posted on the NPS website Chapter, Washington; and the Oregon Buddhist -Public Comment (www.nps.gov/miin). Temple, Portland, Oregon.

The newsletter fully outlined the concepts and ac- Workshops “ It may also makes sense tions in the draft alternatives, actions in the com- to replicate certain signifi- mon to all draft alternatives, and proposed man- The NPS held eleven draft alternatives public cance elements of the origi- agement zones. The newsletter also contained draft scoping workshops in Idaho, Washington and Or- nal camp that may no statements on the national monument’s purpose, egon in July and August 2003. Workshops were longer exist.” significance, and interpretive themes. A planning held in Eden, ID; Twin Falls, ID; Ontario, OR; Sea- -Public Comment schedule including dates, time, and locations for Tac, WA at the Minidoka Remembered Reunion: the public workshops invited public participation Bainbridge Island, WA; Seattle, WA; and Portland, “I like the idea of having and comments on the range of draft alternatives. OR. 217 people attended the workshops overall. The newsletter contained a business reply question- on-site interpretive staff to During the workshops, the NPS asked the public naire that asked the public to comment on the four explain what happened to seven questions about their ideas and issues related us during the war years.” draft alternatives. to the contents of four preliminary alternatives. The -Public Comment Local and regional newspapers and radio stations seven questions were: throughout the planning area were used to dis- • How should we focus education and seminate information on the GMP/EIS, planning “You need to be aware outreach efforts? there will be big expenses process and the draft alternatives. Press releases to start and several years were prepared and mailed on July 7, 2003, by the • What level of visitor services do we want to of struggles. Southern NPS, Pacific West Region- Seattle Office. Press re- provide? Idaho could use such a leases were provided to the same print and broad- • What facilities are necessary for visitor use, site. Need good signs and cast media as during the scoping process. Ads were e.g., buildings, exhibits, trails? pamphlets to draw visi - placed in the following newspapers: Argus Ob- • To what degree do we rehabilitate or tors.”-Public Comment server, Ontario, Oregon; Bainbridge Island Review, reconstruct on-site historic features? Bainbridge Island, Washington; International Exam-

104 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan • Do you support protecting, acquiring, and and letters that were sent to the NPS at the rehabilitating off-site cultural resources? Hagerman Fossil Beds NM headquarters. The vast • How do we manage car, foot, and majority of written comments were received from commercial traffic? Idaho, Washington, Oregon. Additionally, com- ments were received from throughout the U.S., in- • How can we work with the county and local cluding 8 from California, and 1 each from Alaska, landowners to protect the rural landscape? Arizona, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Mis- The discussions were led by a facilitator in small souri, New York, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia. groups, aided by posters listing each question and A significant component of the written comments how each alternative responded to the question. was developed by a University of Washington pres- For example, Question #1 was “How should we ervation planning graduate class called the “Plan- focus education and outreach efforts?” Underneath ning for the Preservation of Minidoka Internment the question, Alt. A read, “Continue existing level National Monument Summer Studio 2003.” The of education and outreach. Increase efforts as students conducted a site visit to Minidoka and funding allows.” Alt. B read, “Focus on off-site education. Provide minimal on-site education and outreach.” Alt. C read, “Focus on on-site educa- Table 6: Public Draft Alternatives Workshops 2003 tion. Provide some off-site education and out- Location Date Attendance reach.” Alt. D read, “Intensively focus on on-site Eden, ID education. Provide some outreach and off-site edu- Senior Citizen Center 7/28/2003 12 cation.” This method assisted discussions by provid- Twin Falls, ID ing conceptual information about the alternatives; KMVT TV Community Room 7/29/2003 11 Ontario, OR it also helped participants develop their own indi- Four Rivers Cultural Center 7/30/2003 14 vidual ideas about the alternatives. Sea-Tac, WA Minidoka Remembered Reunion 8/01/2003 55 For a description of the draft alternatives that were Minidoka Remembered Reunion 8/02/2003 55 discussed during this public involvement phase, see Bainbridge Island, WA Bainbridge Island Commons 8/04/2003 10 Newsletter 3: Draft Alternatives July 2003. Seattle, WA Nisei Veterans Hall 8/05/2003 14 REI 8/06/2003 2 Written Comments Seattle Buddhist Temple 8/07/2003 11 Approximately 50 written responses were collected Portland, OR Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center 8/14/2003 16 from e-mail messages sent to the project Inbox: Oregon Buddhist Temple 8/15/2003 17 [email protected], newsletter questionnaires, TOTAL 217

Public Involvement and Consultation 105 studied the history of Minidoka and the range of Operations and Management, Partnerships and “My concern is that it was alternatives. They produced a booklet that in- Outreach, Natural Resources, Scenic Resources, truly a concentration cluded their analyses, schematic drawings and Management Zones, and Carrying Capacity. camp and not to be labeled plans for the monument. Their comments are in- The topics that most concerned the public were just a relocation center.” cluded as part of the public record and are in- education and outreach, cultural resources, visitor -Public Comment cluded in the following summary of public com- facilities, and access and circulation. The topics that ments. were of moderate concern were land protection “The site should represent and boundaries, partnerships and outreach, and in some way the original operations and management. The topics that were structures, boundaries, Summary of Draft Alternatives of least concern were management zones, natural and environment, perhaps resources, scenic resources, and carrying capacity. through partial recon- Public Comments struction based on ar- Education and Outreach chives.” -Public Comment The comments on the draft alternatives covered a Education and outreach was a key concern for the broad range of topics, issues, and recommenda- public, and the vast majority of people preferred tions for the national monument. When compiled, “Physical objects such as education on the Minidoka site. They said that on- over 375 different comments or ideas were repre- barracks ,guard struc- site education provides an authentic and unique sented, with a total of 1,600 individual comments tures, wire fences, commu- educational experience. Viewing and learning about provided overall. Because various statements or nal bath house, commu- the site’s historic features, experiencing its remote- ideas were mentioned repeatedly, similar comments nity dining halls, and the ness, and learning through a wide range of inter- barren setting in which are stated once, but the number of times a particu- pretive and reflective means would be the most ef- they were set should be lar point was made has been tabulated. This fective educational experience. Developing the site preserved as a reminder method highlights the comments that people stated into a visitor destination was also important to the that it is more than just a were most important and needed to be addressed public; they wanted to attract visitors to the site by story.”-Public Comment at the national monument. However, each com- providing a rich experience with a diversity of edu- ment was recorded and an attempt was made to cational activities. incorporate all concerns and ideas into this sum- “There is no doubt that vi- mary. The public suggested a variety of educational tech- sual elements will have the niques and programs that the national monument most profound impact on The following summary is organized by topics that could implement at the site. Interactive exhibits, a visitors.” -Public Comment have been addressed for each alternative in the scale model, traveling exhibit, and website were the draft GMP/EIS. The topics are: Education and Out- most popular educational tools recommended by reach, Cultural Resources, Visitor Facilities, Access the public. Several people mentioned other educa- and Circulation, Land Protection and Boundaries,

106 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan tional tools such as creative learning activities, real racy, racism, wartime hysteria, and violation of civil time media programs, kiosks, tours, and films. rights. Some people stated that it was necessary Many of these educational activities would take given the military and political climate. A few saw place in a visitor center on the site. Some people the internment and incarceration as protecting the “I think the rock garden/ also mentioned commemoration as being an impor- Nikkei, and as necessary for national security during honor roll area is key in tant component at the site; they suggested com- World War II. Some do not support the creation or the site development/rede- velopment. That was the memorative plaques, artwork, and pilgrimages as development of the national monument. thing that most struck me respectful ways to reflect on the past and the Many people wanted the public to understand the in being there for the Pil- people who experienced life at Minidoka. Some internees’ experience at Minidoka. This included grimage.”-Public Comment people mentioned that the site has drastically how the Nikkei adapted to new and harsh living changed since they were at Minidoka. They said conditions, as well as the sociological issues cre- that its value is in its educational potential, rather ated by the experience and their day to day “Camp Minidoka’s en- than its cultural resources or archeological sites. trance should have the struggles and activities. Also, they wanted the honor roll restored, and The majority of the public felt strongly that on-site public to understand the various site features and should have the names of education should be complemented by off-site edu- their significance to the internees. all the men and women cation, and that working through partnerships is Some people thought that the national monument who served in the mili- the best way to reach a diverse audience. Many should present Nikkei history, including before and tary.”-Public Comment people said that off-site education should be the after World War II. Some considered Minidoka as focus, as the site is far away, on-site development sacred ground, and the stories of Minidoka and the funding is limited, and attracting people to the site “Erect a monument or incarceration should be a legacy for the future. The is difficult. They suggested that off-site education wall with each family’s greenery and farms that surround the national could be accomplished by developing a variety of names inscribed.” monument were identified as a visual legacy cre- outreach materials to be located and distributed -Public Comment ated by the internees. The military contributions by from local, regional, and national partners. Nikkei were important to the public, and some people thought they should be prominently fea- Interpretation “Commission Maya Lin, tured at the national monument. NOW! Minidoka will The public continued to be concerned with inter- 100% enhance as a travel pretation about Minidoka and the Nikkei experi- Cultural Resources destination with Maya Lin ence during World War II. Of most concern is why involved.”-Public Comment It was widely recognized that the number and size it happened; and the public raised a diversity of of significant historic features at Minidoka is lim- comments related to this question. Some people ited. The vast majority of people thought that his- cited the constitutional story, fragility of democ- toric buildings should be returned to the site or re-

Public Involvement and Consultation 107 constructed in order to provide for a compelling except to note that the staff housing buildings visitor experience. These buildings and historic fea- could be used to contrast with the internees living tures could give the visitors an authentic under- facilities. Most former internees suggested that at- standing of the camp conditions, how the internees tention should be focused on areas that were adapted to life at Minidoka, as well as a broader evocative of the majority of people living there, understanding of the layout and extent of the namely the internees’ living quarters. camp itself. The sense of place and landscape char- Cultural resources and locations off-site were a sig- acter was also important to the public. They nificant concern to the public, in particular re- thought the site should be maintained to evoke a sources related to the internees’ experiences at sense of desolation, remoteness, and Spartan look, Minidoka. Barracks were of utmost concern; the just as it did during World War II. public wanted historic barracks to be acquired and The entry into the national monument was of spe- returned to Minidoka, preferably an entire block in cial concern to the public. They stated that the its original location. Reconstruction of the barracks entry’s collection of historic and nonextant re- was a back-up preference if historic barracks are sources gives the visitor a strong sense of arrival, unavailable. The block and barracks should accu- confinement, cultural traditions, and patriotism. El- rately depict living conditions, such as how the bar- ements such as the guard tower and fence should racks were when the internees arrived, and how be reconstructed to complement the Military Police they were made livable. Some people also wanted Building in illustrating confinement and imprison- ment. The garden should be rehabilitated to show Nikkei cultural traditions. The honor roll should be reconstructed to recognize and honor the military experiences of Minidoka internees, just as it did during World War II.

Some of the public mentioned the swimming hole, canal area, and historic administrative area. People who mentioned the swimming hole said that it should be preserved and interpreted as a popular place for recreational activities as well as a remem- brance of tragic events within the camp. Those who commented on the canal thought some access should be maintained. The public rarely mentioned Public draft alternatives workshops at the Minidoka Reunion in SeaTac. August 2003. NPS Photo. the historic administrative and staff housing area,

108 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan recreational fields to be reconstructed; some of ment. Ideally, the visitor center could be an adap- them wanted to see a baseball field. tive reuse of a historic building. The visitor center could house a diversity of programs, exhibits, and Oral histories continued to be a significant concern activities related to learning about Minidoka and for the public. Oral histories must be captured the World War II experiences of Nikkei. Many while there are still living people who experienced people thought that a visitor center is not enough Minidoka, and this can be done best in collabora- to provide for a rich visitor experience, and they tion with Nikkei and historical organizations. The suggested that additional facilities should be pro- public said that oral histories are a unique and au- vided. Some people thought that the visitor center Public draft alternatives workshop at the thentic tool for educating the public. should not be too large, while others thought that Minidoka Reunion in SeaTac. August 2003. NPS Photo. Artifacts and memorabilia were important for some there should be no visitor center at all. people. They said collections should be managed in Some respondents wanted overnight facilities and cooperation with other southern Idaho NPS units vending. Overnight facilities could be located in his- and other institutions. Collections could be located toric barracks for educational purposes. Vending on-site or at other locations that can provide archi- could include beverages and be located in the his- val space and public access. Some people wanted toric mess halls. Some people thought that over- the NPS to explore and source out artifacts related night facilities and vending are incompatible with to Minidoka. They said these artifacts should be the educational goals of the national monument. displayed at the site. Several respondents thought trails are an excellent Visitor Facilities way to guide on-site pedestrian experience while providing an educational and reflective experience. For the public, the overriding issue related to visitor The public wanted a trail along the historic perim- use was developing permanent on-site facilities to eter fence and near the canal. Additionally, some of provide for a rich educational experience. There these trails could be restored historic pathways. should be a wide range of services to attract visi- tors and accommodate year round visitation. At a Some people thought that visitor facilities should minimum, there should be clean restrooms, water, be provided off-site. They suggested that facilities and shelter for visitors. Some of the public thought could be provided in “hubs” where internees and that development should be sensitive to the setting their families still live. Some people said that a and sense of place; development should not im- visitor’s center off-site would be more convenient pede the understanding of the history nor the site. and realistic, and it would not interfere with the site’s desolate character. The public consistently mentioned that a visitor center should be located at the national monu- Public Involvement and Consultation 109 Access, Circulation, and Parking that visitors could learn about Minidoka even be- fore they arrive at the national monument. Roads and vehicular circulation were the most im- portant issues in this category for the majority of Many people suggested that a shuttle could pro- public. They were concerned about visitor experi- vide transportation from a local hub out to the na- ence, safety, and ease of access to the national tional monument. The transit service could coordi- monument and within the national monument’s nate with tour groups, and provide a guided boundaries. Many people thought the county road interpretive tour at the site. Many respondents that bisects the national monument needs to be re- reasoned that a transit service could control ac- Public draft alternatives workshops at the routed. They thought the road is dangerous and Minidoka Reunion in SeaTac. August 2003. cess to the site, thereby protecting it from over- NPS Photo. detracts from the historic scene and visitor experi- use. Also, some people suggested that the number ence. Only some people thought the exact historic of visitors should be limited to create a more “per- road system should be reconstructed. Many respon- sonal approach” to visiting the site. dents expressed their concerns over parking; they emphasized that parking lots need to be accessible Most people agreed that the pedestrian experi- and large enough to accommodate visitor vehicles. ence must be an integral part of visiting Minidoka. Many former internees suggested that pedestrian Most local property owners were concerned with circulation should be emphasized, as it mirrors the maintaining their rights-of-way and how increased internees’ mode of transportation while they were visitation and new or rerouted roads would impact their quality of life. Many area residents expressed their concern for the realities of rerouting the county road. They had questions about where it could be relocated, how a reroute could affect ve- hicular circulation and throughway commercial traf- fic. Also, they were very concerned about visitors trespassing on to their land.

Directional signage was an important issue for the vast majority of the public, particularly those who have tried and failed to find the site. They sug- gested placing signs along Interstate 84, and direc- tional signage out to the site. Many people sug- gested that interpretive or interactive signage Public draft alternatives workshops at the Minidoka Reunion in could be constructed off-site as well as on-site, so SeaTac. August 2003. NPS Photo.

110 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan confined at Minidoka. Trails, according to respon- Many of the respondents wanted to see the rural dents, needed to be accessible to people with dis- character and prominent landscape features of the abilities. Signage should provide way finding as surrounding landscape protected, particularly within “People should be made well as educational information about Minidoka. the historic camp limits. Protection could be en- aware that innocent couraged through cooperative agreements, such as people were interned in Minidoka based solely on Land Protection and Boundaries conservation easements, conservation plans, and their Japanese ancestry.” scenic conservation easements. Conversely, some The single most repeated comment about land pro- -Public Comment people were opposed and/or not willing to enter tection and boundaries was cultivating and main- into these types of agreements with the NPS. taining positive relations with adjacent landowners and related government agencies. “We were at war, and Partnerships and Outreach there was real fear that Ja - Many people thought the national monument The public unanimously supported the idea of de- pan would attack the west should acquire more land, as the national veloping and maintaining partnerships for educa- coast of the United States. monument’s current acreage does not include his- tion, outreach, and to accomplish the national Some Japanese Americans torical residential areas, nor some significant cul- were outspoken about monument’s purpose. The public suggested the NPS tural resources related to the camp. These people their allegiance to their could partner with organizations, schools, govern- wanted to see barracks returned to their original motherland.” ment agencies, historical societies, museums, and locations; these barracks could be a centerpiece for -Public Comment archives to promote public education about the in- interpretation about the internees’ daily experiences ternment and incarceration. Nikkei organizations, at Minidoka. However, some people were opposed other significant sites related to the Nikkei experi- to enlarging the national monument; particular “I am asking you to ensure ence during World War II, as well as civil rights that the history of the relo- those who thought the size is too large already. groups could be potential partners. Equally, the cation of ethnic Japanese is Several people suggested that the historic bound- public supported local partnerships to attract visi- correctly portrayed. I aries of the camps should be marked to give visi- tors and volunteers and to provide visitor services. have researched declassi - tors a sense of the camps historic size and layout. fied documents relating to These markers could be vertical elements on the Operations and Management MAGIC interceptions historic locations of the eight guard towers. Also, made available through The public was moderately concerned with opera- the late Dr. D. Lowman marking the national monument’s boundaries was a tions and management, and some of the public and find it disconcerting significant concern for the local landowners as they thought the NPS is capable of determining how the that the pubic is entirely ig- want to prevent visitors from straying on to their national monument should be operated and man- norant to this history.” land. (Boundaries were marked with monuments aged. The most popular concern under this cat- -Public Comment along the perimeter of the national monument in egory was the need for knowledgeable staff on- summer 2004).

Public Involvement and Consultation 111 site and site protection. Some people wanted to ment.” Some people wanted to see “concentra- see administrative and maintenance facilities on tion camp” in the name. Some people liked the the site to support staff and upkeep of the na- word “internment,” while others did not. Also, tional monument. some of the public wanted “Hunt” to be in the name, as the site is locally known. Another important topic for the public was the name of the national monument. More people sup- Some people were concerned with funding for the ported a name change to “Minidoka National His- national monument. They said that lobbying could toric Site” than keeping its current name. They ensure that the national monument’s development said “historic site” is more accurate than “monu- and maintenance is funded. Some people wanted

Mrs. Onodera. Her sons, Ko, Kaun, and Satoru were serving in the military. Satoru died in combat in Italy on July 5, 1944. Circa 1944. National Archives.

112 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan to be guaranteed that the national monument will C (which became the basis of the preferred not charge entrance fees. alternative in the draft GMP/EIS and the final general management plan) was the most supported Management Zones alternative, as it was considered by many as the most authentic and appropriate to the national Management zones were of little concern to the monument’s purpose. Many people also supported public. They indicated that the NPS has done an ef- a mixture of elements in alternatives C and D. fective job at analyzing, categorizing, and describ- Alternative D was the second most supported ing the management zones. alternative. Supporters of alternative D favored more intensive on-site development and a higher Natural Resources level of interactive educational tools, such as the The public widely recognized that the national interpretive campus concept. Few people monument’s focus does not feature natural re- supported alternatives A or B, however some were sources. However, when natural resources were dis- partial to the outreach efforts featured in cussed there were a few key points that some alternative B. people suggested. They said natural resources Many people were concerned with the implementa- An oral history interview with Brooks should be protected through erosion control, fire tion of the plan, and what was the best strategy to Andrews at the Minidoka Reunion. Brooks Andrews is the son of Pastor Emery management, minimizing conflicts with cultural re- develop and manage the site. Many people indi- Andrews, who moved to Twin Falls to assist source protection, and hazardous material mitiga- cated that it is a good idea to begin with adaptive his congregation of Baptist Nikkei at Minidoka during World War II. August tion. Some people were uncomfortable with re- reuse of historic buildings while funding is limited. 2003. NPS Photo. stricting wildlife movement through the site, while Others suggested that the national monument others approved of it. should focus on publicity now, and when interest increases then the national monument should be- Scenic Resources gin investing in development. Very few people were concerned with scenic re- sources. Their only concern was that the extent of the historic camp could be viewed from the na- tional monument.

Alternatives The public reviewed the alternatives and provided general comments on the alternatives. Alternative

Public Involvement and Consultation 113 cations in the west and to stakeholder groups Draft GMP/EIS Public Process throughout the U.S. The newsletter provided an overview of the planning process, the four alterna- “I believe the best way to tives, and it announced the schedule of public The Minidoka Internment National Monument present the internment meetings. and incarceration stories Draft General Management Plan/ Environmental is with visuals and per- Impact Statement was released to the public on Local and regional newspapers and radio stations sonal stories of the intern- June 21, 2005. The draft GMP/EIS was filed with throughout the planning area were used to dis- ees themselves.” the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in seminate information about the draft GMP/EIS and -Public Comment June 2005. The EPA announced the availability of announce the public meetings. Press releases were the draft GMP/EIS for public review and comment, mailed on June 21, 2005 by the NPS Pacific West and a notice of availability was published in the Region-Seattle Office. Press releases were provided “A detailed exhibit of the Federal Register on July 21, 2005 (Vol.70, No.139, to the same print and broadcast media as during ‘Farm-in-a-Day’ program pp. 42094-42095). Government agencies and the the earlier public involvement phases of the project. that took place at this site public were invited to submit public comments by in the 1950’s should be a regular mail, e-mail, fax, online, and at public part of the Hunt story.”- Public Workshops meetings. The formal public comment period closed Public Comment The NPS held ten public meetings in Idaho, Wash- on September 19, 2005. ington, Oregon, and California in July and August The NPS mailed approximately 900 draft GMP/EIS 2005 to provide the public with an opportunity to “The site should have res - documents to agencies, organizations, and the pub- learn about the draft GMP/EIS and to offer com- toration or reconstruction lic who had participated in the planning process, ments. The meetings began with a presentation of of a sample of each of the requested a copy, or were identified by the NPS as the major elements of the draft GMP/EIS. The important types of struc- potentially having an interest in the project. Copies meeting then transitioned into an open house for- tures.”-Public Comment of the draft GMP/EIS were posted for public review mat or a facilitated group discussion format. Meet- on the NPS Planning, Environment and Public Com- ings were held in Eden, ID; Twin Falls, ID; Ontario, “Whatever happens at the ment website (http://parkplanning.nps.gov/miin). OR; Bainbridge Island, WA; Seattle, WA; Portland, site make it something ev- The document was available at libraries in Idaho, OR; San Francisco, CA; and Los Angeles, CA. 213 eryone that comes to it Washington, and Oregon. Copies of the draft GMP/ people attended the meetings overall. goes home with a new out- EIS could also be requested by contacting the NPS. look on what happened at A fourth newsletter summarizing the draft GMP/EIS Written Comments the camp.”-Public Comment was produced and mailed to approximately 2,600 During the public comment period, the NPS re- individuals. Another 2,000 newsletters were sent ceived a total of 159 written responses in the form in packets to organizations, libraries, and public lo- of letters, e-mails, newsletter response forms, and

114 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan web comments. Of those, nine responses were not considered substantive, in a formal sense, and from government entities and organizations. The therefore did not require an official response. The majority of written comments were received from NPS responded to substantive comments, and Washington, California, and Idaho. Comments these responses can be found in the Comment and were also received from Wyoming, Oregon, Colo- Response section of the abbreviated final GMP/ rado, Florida, and Oklahoma. One comment was re- EIS. ceived from the following states: Alaska, Arizona, The comments received covered a broad range of Illinois, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, topics, ideas, and preferences. Many statements or Ohio, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin, and ideas were expressed by several individuals. In this one from Canada. summary, similar comments are stated once along with how often the particular idea or topic was re- peated. Summary of Draft GMP/EIS Public Comments Table 7: Public Draft GMP/EIS Workshops 2005 The following summary incorporates both the pub- Location Date Attendance lic meeting comments and the written comments Eden, ID received by the NPS through the close of the public American Legion Hall 7/06/2005 17 comment period. The NPS received comments from Twin Falls, ID KMVT TV Community Room 7/07/2005 17 approximately 375 individuals and organizations Ontario, OR during the public comment period. Four Rivers Cultural Center 7/08/2005 7 Bainbridge Island, WA Substantive comments were those which challenged Bainbridge Island Commons 7/12/2005 12 the accuracy of the analysis, disputed the accuracy Seattle, WA Japanese Baptist Church 7/13/2005 29 of information presented, suggested different viable Nisei Veterans Hall 7/14/2005 25 alternatives, or provided new information that Portland, OR made a change in the proposal. In other words, Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center 7/15/2005 36 Oregon Buddhist Temple 7/16/2005 14 they raised, debated, or questioned a point of fact, San Francisco, CA policy, or a concept presented in the document. National Japanese American 8/09/2005 18 The NPS was required to respond to all substantive Historical Society Los Angeles, CA comments. Comments in favor or against the pro- National Japanese American Museum 8/10/2005 38 The entrance garden posed action or alternatives or comments that only TOTAL 213 in wintertime. 2003. agree or disagree with policy, while valuable, were NPS Photo. (Below)

Public Involvement and Consultation 115 The first section summarizes the public’s prefer- respondents thought the NPS was misguided in its ences of the four alternatives and the reasons for interpretation and presentation of historical facts “No one Nikkei voice or their selections. The summary is then organized by related to the incarceration of Nikkei during World group should control topics that were addressed in each alternative of War II. The remainder of those supporting Alterna- Minidoka’s meaning.” the draft general management plan. The topics are: tive A indicated their preference for the least ex- -Public Comment Interpretation, Education, Cultural Resources, Visitor pensive of the four alternatives. Only a handful of Experience and Visitor Facilities, Access and Circula- individuals supported Alternatives B and D. tion, Land Protection and Boundaries, Operations For a description of the alternatives that were dis- and Management, Partnerships and Outreach, cussed during this public involvement phase, see Natural Resources, Scenic Resources, Management the Minidoka Internment National Monument Draft Zones, and Carrying Capacity. General Management Plan/ Environmental Impact The topics that most concerned the public were In- Statement June 2005. terpretation, Education, Cultural Resources, and Visitor Experience and Visitor Facilities. The topics Interpretation that were of moderate concern were Partnerships, Interpretation of the internment and incarceration Operations and Management, Land Protection and of Japanese Americans during World War II was the Boundaries, and Access and Circulation. There were most common topic discussed by the public. Several only a couple comments on Management Zones, individuals recounted their experiences during Natural Resources, Scenic Resources, and Carrying World War II, and it was clear that their wartime Capacity, and did not justify being included in this experiences shaped their perspective and how they summary. wanted this piece of American history to be inter- preted. The people who described their wartime ex- Alternatives periences included former internees, former WRA Approximately half of the comments received from staff, neighbors to the Minidoka camp, and World the public explicitly stated a preference for one of War II veterans. Many people recounted historical the alternatives over the others. Of those, two facts related to the internment and incarceration, thirds of the comments supported Alternative C, conditions at Minidoka, and also World War II in the NPS Preferred Alternative. The re-establishment the Pacific and European theaters. Some changes to of the barracks block was the most common reason the historical background chapter were made as a for supporting the preferred alternative as well as result of public comments. The experiences and its educational value. Approximately one quarter ideas expressed by the public all suggested that of the respondents stated a preference for Alter- Minidoka’s stories are diverse, and its meaning and native A: No Action; approximately half of these relevance to each individual is unique.

116 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan Why the internment and incarceration of Japanese to national defense during World War II. The public Americans during World War II occurred was a clearly supported the premise that the lives of in- topic that was brought up repeatedly in the public ternees before, during, and after World War II must “Providing an overall comments. The vast majority of people expressed be described, together with the hardships, racism, story of the internment is concurrence with the U.S. Commission on Wartime and injustice they endured. Many commenters said of absolute importance, yet Relocation and Internment of Civilians findings that that the NPS must interpret the experiences of there must be a fine bal- ance struck between the the interment and incarceration of Nikkei “was not people related with Minidoka, such as the WRA larger context and the determined by military conditions but were the re- staff, neighbors, and those who were associated Minidoka story.” sult of race prejudice, war hysteria, and failure of with the event or internees. Interpreting the history -Public Comment political leadership” (U.S. CWRIC 1997: 194). One and significance of the historic site and its features commenter stated that “it’s not a blame game—it’s was important for the majority of commenter. Also understanding OUR [American] history.” determined important by most respondents was “There has to be a careful for the public to understand how internees and balance to have Minidoka Several public commenters maintained that the in- then homesteaders created a community in the a place of interest and ternment and incarceration was justified because desert environment and transformed the landscape education without being some Nikkei posed a threat to national security, and into an agricultural area. Finally, many felt that the boring or too somber.” incarcerating all Nikkei was the best way to ensure context of a world at war must be interpreted for -Public Comment the prevention of subversive activities against the the public. While internees experienced profound U.S. A few people also wanted it known that thou- hardship at Minidoka, millions of people through- sands of Japanese Americans renounced their citi- out the world experienced war, suffering, and injus- “It is important to preserve zenship and declared themselves enemies of the tice. Overall, the vast majority of people stated that a sense of imprisonment- U.S., and that Nikkei living outside the exclusion fencing, guard towers, interpretation needs to be authentic, compelling, zone were not incarcerated. A couple of barracks living, and sto- and relevant. commenters also stated that the living conditions at ries.” Minidoka were equal to those of the military and Terminology continued to be a controversial topic. -Public Comment even better than some people living in southern Some people wanted the NPS to use the term Idaho at the time. “concentration camp” in publications and interpre- tation. A few people wanted the term “relocation “Add a block- 12 barracks- The vast majority of public comments on interpreta- to WRA specifications, and center” to be used to be historically accurate. Some tion fell under the interpretive themes that were as close to 1942-1945 as people stated that the term “internment camp” is identified in the draft GMP/EIS. These included in- possible.” -Public Comment misleading and inaccurate, as the “internment terpreting the relationship between Minidoka and camps” were specifically for enemy aliens run by civil liberties and constitutional rights, discussing the Department of Justice. Words to describe the the loyalty questionnaire, and Nikkei contributions experience, such as internment, detention, reloca-

Public Involvement and Consultation 117 tion, evacuation, and incarceration were all dis- most of which were included in the prescriptions cussed, and no consensus emerged for any specific under the preferred alternative, included restoring “Over the next 20 years it word usage. the garden, honor roll, perimeter barbed wire would be good to look for fence, guard tower, baseball fields, root cellar, and opportunities to acquire Education many of the small scale landscape features. The his- more acreage. With reach - toric Minidoka Relocation Center landfill was also ing out in friendship where Similar to previous public comments on education, recognized as a critical archeological resource for possible to people who own the vast majority of the public said that education the national monument. surrounding acreage, in is the core mission of the national monument. Most time there may be the pos - desired both on-site and off-site education to reach The barracks block was an intriguing and stimulat- sibility of people donating as many people as possible. Many educational tech- ing proposal for many internees and was supported or allowing purchase of niques and strategies were proposed to enhance by a large majority of the public comments re- additional acreage.” education about the significance and meaning of ceived. Some people stated it was important to ac- -Public Comment the Minidoka experience, and most of these com- quire historic barrack buildings to be authentic and ments would be accommodated under the prescrip- accurately portray residential life. A few people said “The term ‘internment’ tions of the preferred alternative. These educational that the mess hall and lavatory/laundry building bothers me. Its use in this tools included engaging and interactive exhibits, a instance [Minidoka In- were necessary to show daily life and the condi- scale model, a website, educational materials, ternment National Monu- tions in the camp. Former internees also wanted ment] seems so innocuous, fieldtrips, teacher trainings, and a traveling trunk the barracks to show improvements made to the naïve, and undesigning. kit. Many people mentioned that lesson plans barracks and camp landscape by internees. A few Why not be frank, honest, should be developed and incorporated into school people wanted the NPS to ensure that landscape open and call the intern- curricula in numerous states. A few people men- features in the residential area are accurately por- ment for what it really tioned that the NPS should allow for research at trayed, including the ornamental gardens and walk- was, ‘concentration.’” the site, including a database of internees who ways. -Public Comment were incarcerated similar to Ellis Island. Most Some people disagreed with establishing a barracks people agreed the focus should be a national audi- “Change name ence, and some people said that education should block because it could be too costly, and the bar- to ‘Minidoka National His- begin locally in the southern Idaho area. racks could be interpreted through other means, toric Site’- ‘Monument’ is such as a scale model. Additionally, a few people a dead word; ‘National’ wanted to see more of the historic buildings recon- Cultural Resources and ‘Historic’ are now- structed. see-this!” Cultural resources was the third most common -Public Comment topic for public comment. Restoring features in the Many public meeting attendees cited oral history landscape to World War II era conditions was im- as an essential component of education, interpre- portant to accurately depict the camp. Suggestions, tation, and cultural resources. Some members of

118 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan the public suggested candidates for oral histories Several public comments supported the idea of a in addition to former internees, such as the WRA new memorial at the site. Nisei and subsequent “Alternative A is not ac- staff and military police at Minidoka. Many Nikkei generations wished to honor the Issei, as ceptable.”-Public Comment Portlanders also expressed their concern that the they were the people who suffered the most at oral histories are focused on Seattle Nikkei, and Minidoka. they wanted more representation of the Portland “Alternative C: cannot Public comments also reiterated that proper and beat ‘visually’ seeing how Nikkei experience. improved directional signs are necessary along the the Minidoka experience major routes to Minidoka. was for the people. Alter- Visitor Experience and Visitor Facilities native D: do not get the ac- A few people discussed overnight facilities, whether Several people described their recent visits to the tual feeling of what hap- site. Many felt a strong sense of place at the site, at the site or nearby. Some people thought it pened to us.”-Public Comment would be intriguing to provide an overnight experi- while others were disappointed that there wasn’t ence inside a barracks building for educational pur- much to see. Some people said the high desert and open environment allows for a full appreciation of poses. A few people mentioned the need for camp- “Alternative C: This alter- ing facilities at the site or nearby. native seems to provide the the physical site. Several people wanted the na- most for the money.” tional monument to include places where they can be alone and contemplate, particularly in the resi- Partnerships and Outreach dential area. Expressing emotions and healing was Partnerships were an important component of the “I would support Alterna- important to some former internees and their de- national monument’s educational mission and in tive D with new facilities scendants. They wanted to actually stand in the implementation and development of the site. Spe- and interactive media in residential area and understand the internees’ expe- cific organizations were suggested as potential conjunction with the pres - riences where they happened. partners, including local Idaho partners, educational ervation or recreation of institutions, as well as national civil rights organiza- much of the original his- Visitor facilities were an important component to tions. Amtrak was suggested as a potential partner, toric site and facilities.” visitor experience. Of those that commented on so visitors could experience the train ride to Eden. -Public Comment visitor facilities, the vast majority wanted them to It was also suggested that the NPS should work be authentic to the historic period, wherever pos- with local governments and organizations to pro- sible. Only a couple of people wanted a newly con- mote tourism in the area. structed visitor center. Most liked the barracks “Alternative D would not block concept which could serve interpretive func- add to a visitor’s experi- tions as well as provide spaces for additional visitor Operations and Management ence and would require and park needs, such as classrooms, collections Funding was a frequent concern for the public. unnecessary funds.” storage, park administration, etc. Most people wanted to know how the funding pro- -Public Comment

Public Involvement and Consultation 119 cess works. A few people suggested that the NPS They wanted to see NPS rangers and volunteers at seek out private funding for specific projects pro- the site. They commented that it would be a more posed in the GMP. Some people disagreed with meaningful visitor experience if some of the staff spending federal funds on this project, as there are were former internees or their relatives so that they other needs and priorities at this time. A few could provide personal stories of their family experi- people suggested using the money to preserve ence. A few people were concerned with vandalism other historic World War II sites. at the site, and they wanted staff there to ensure safety and security. The proposed name change from Minidoka Intern- ment National Monument to Minidoka National His- Land Protection and Boundaries toric Site was also an issue for many members of the public. Of those who commented on this issue Overall, acquiring the 128 -acre property to the specifically, approximately half agreed with the pro- north of the national monument, historic Minidoka posed name change, while the other half either op- Relocation Center landfill, and Bureau of Reclama- pose it or suggested additional names. Those who tion lands was supported by a large majority of the supported the name change reasoned that the term public respondents. People stated that the addi- “internment” is technically incorrect and that “na- tional historic lands would benefit the educational tional historic site” is more accurate in defining the mission of the national monument and would allow site than “national monument.” Several people the NPS to preserve these historic areas. A few who oppose the name change stated that the word people mentioned that it is important to acquire “internment” instantly describes what happened at the farm-in-a-day property in order to educate the Minidoka. For a couple of people, the term “monu- public about the post-camp homesteading era and ment” was more powerful than “historic site.” agriculture in southern Idaho. A few people said Other names that were suggested include: that it would be in the interest of the NPS to keep Minidoka National Internment Site and Minidoka some portions in agricultural use, which is the Concentration Camp National Historic Site. dominant land use in the area.

Some individuals were concerned about the Access, Circulation, and Parking project’s schedule and stated that implementation must begin immediately. They wanted the facilities Transportation was a key concern at the public and restoration of historic features to be completed meetings held in Idaho. Some people stated the soon so that former internees can see develop- best solution to traffic problems could be accom- ments at the site while they are still alive. plished by improvement and re-routing Hunt Road along E Perrine Road and E 400 S to the south of Staffing was also a concern for a few individuals.

120 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan the national monument. The importance of con- The public comment period on the draft GMP/EIS ducting a transportation study was also voiced. was the culmination of formal public engagement in the planning process for the Minidoka GMP/EIS. Within the site, trails, parking, and roads were Public engagement occurred between 2002 and mentioned. A few people stated that the trails link- 2005 from public scoping through draft alternatives ing portions of the site should be accessible to all and public review of the draft GMP/EIS. The wide- people. spread support for the package of actions that con- stituted the preferred alternative affirmed that the Conclusion planning process actively involved the public at all Public comments received were documented, ana- stages of the development of the GMP/EIS. lyzed, and considered in decision-making and incor- porated into the final GMP/EIS as appropriate. Comments that presented new data or addressed the adequacy of the document, the alternatives or Comments on Implementation of the analysis were responded to pursuant to NEPA the Plan regulations. Comments expressing personal opinion or that had no specific relevance to the adequacy Throughout the public planning process for or accuracy of the draft GMP/EIS were considered Minidoka Internment National Monument, the Na- in the decision-making process but were not re- tional Park Service received an extraordinary num- sponded to directly. ber of comments that offered suggestions about Consultation and agency letters on the draft GMP/ how the national monument should interface with EIS, substantive comments received, and NPS re- visitors, what specific experiences it should offer, sponses to those comments were published in the and other facets of its operation. Most of these Minidoka Internment National Monument Abbrevi- comments were not specific to any one of the al- ated Final General Management Plan/Environmental ternatives analyzed in the draft GMP/EIS. Rather, Impact Statement June 2006. A number of com- they suggested programs or activities, which could ments provided valuable suggestions on improving be implemented under several of the action alter- the draft GMP/EIS. Some comments led to changes natives, to achieve the desired future conditions of reflected in the abbreviated final GMP/EIS. Other the national monument. In addition, many involved comments resulted in a response to explain NPS specific suggestions that were beyond the level of policy, to refer readers to information in the EIS, to detail addressed in a general management plan. answer technical questions, to further explain The NPS recognized, however, that these com- technical issues, or to provide clarification. ments represented valuable input from a con-

Public Involvement and Consultation 121 cerned public in support of the purpose of provided by the Council on Environmental Quality Minidoka Internment National Monument. There- regulations, any NEPA document produced for fore, these implementation-level suggestions have these efforts would be “tiered” or procedurally been summarized and included here so that future connected to this EIS.) These analyses may include managers of the national monument can consider additional public involvement, providing opportuni- these comments to help formulate more specific ties for further comments and suggestions. implementation-level plans and programs that are The following summary includes implementation- responsive to the public’s interests. Such future level suggestions that were provided by the public plans and actions will be subject to the require- over the entire course of the public planning pro- ments of the National Environmental Policy Act cess for Minidoka. and may require additional, more-detailed environ- mental analysis at the time they are proposed. (As

The entrance garden in wintertime. 2003. NPS Photo.

122 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan Interpretation American history in relation to Native American history. This is a valid exploration, considering that the federal government’s • Minidoka should be conceived as a site for ongoing debate management of Japanese Americans during WWII was directly about the issues of civil rights and constitutional history, and the influenced by its prior experience with Native Americans and vice NPS should use this interpretive theme to guide its interpretation versa.” and management of the site by fore fronting it in exhibits, • “Minidoka Internment National Monument should honor the interpretive materials, public outreach, its web site, and events at or related to the site. veterans, but it must not forget the draft resisters, the Issei, women, and the younger generations of American Nikkei. It is • Develop interpretation to enable visitors to consider Minidoka imperative that the larger public be aware of the fractures within from the perspective of and through the experiences of the Issei, the community that are a manifestation of the internment and Nisei, and WRA staff. incarceration and one of its most distressing legacies.” • To be historically accurate, the North Side Canal and the • “Minidoka should provide an opportunity for Americans to Swimming Hole should be regarded in two distinct lights: 1) in discuss the different experiences that are often the result of the context of the unjust incarceration, and then separately 2) in racial or ethnic identity and, hopefully, learn to more fully the context of what the Nikkei did there, which in this case appreciate the validity of each others’ views.” includes both positive recreation experiences as well as tragic • events. Develop educational programs and materials that include information about the Department of Justice Camps, including • As NPS staff proceed with implementation of the plan, they must describing the experiences of Japanese, Germans, and Italians keep in mind the tragic, grave, unjust circumstances of the who were interned in these camps. Minidoka concentration camp that accompany any • “improvements” made there. Develop educational programs and materials that include information about other countries (including Mexico and Canada) • “No one Nikkei voice or group should control Minidoka’s that had internment and incarceration camps for those of meaning. All the fractiousness of military service that still haunts Japanese descent. the Japanese American community must be represented in the • The national monument should include interpretation of the voices included in exhibits, printed materials, and other interpretations of the site.” trauma that occurred as a result of having to leave beloved pets behind. • “Minidoka should not remain fixed in its meaning, but, • Explore the use of the instructions or other documents given to consistent with the Organization of American Historian’s suggestions in its 2004 report on Teaching Citizenship and the camp guards, detailing their orders and the actions to be Patriotism, it should evolve.” taken under various circumstances. This information could be used interpretively to underscore the fact that the internees were • “Explore methods of framing individual group experiences in being held against their will. dialogue with other group histories, such as seeing Japanese

Public Involvement and Consultation 123 • Use the art and creativity of the internees for interpretive and o Ask former internees who have spoken to classes about educational purposes. Include information about internee bands, student’s questions to develop compelling educational music, diaries, sketches, architecture, and other forms of art. programs that will cater to students. Examples of such interpretation can be found at the Teresenstadt o Related educational organizations and museums, such as concentration camp museum in Europe and the United States the Holocaust Museum in Washington D.C., the D-day Holocaust Memorial Museum. Museum in New Orleans, and the Museum of Tolerance • Use the debate over terminology as a topic for active learning. in Los Angeles. Education and Interpretation Interpretive Displays

• Seek and evaluate other sources of information to supplement • Present photographs, letters, artifacts, audiovisual programs and that which has already been obtained from public meetings. documentaries to provide the visitors with the primary Among others, these sources of information should include: interpretive themes of the national monument. o The Densho testimonies and other oral histories that are • Update the displays in the interpretive facilities regularly so obtained from personal one-on-one dialogues conducted visitors will be enticed to return to the national monument. in an atmosphere conducive to eliciting the maximum • Incorporate the latest computer simulation and virtual reality amount of frank information. capabilities in order to provide a virtual tour of the camp as it o Books about the camps and internment, particularly those existed during WWII. that may include accounts taken from former internees • Create a dioramic display of the landscape, including the flora shortly after their release. and fauna. This display could illustrate how the climatic and o Diaries kept by the former internees would provide very environmental conditions affected daily life at Minidoka. valuable insight into the personal feelings and emotions • Create a display showing the names of all those held at of the authors recorded when they occurred. Minidoka. List the names according to their barrack address.

o Articles published in academic journals. Contemporary • Provide a scale model of the entire camp to enable visitors to see articles published in journals in the fields of both history and understand the vastness of the camp, the large population and ethnic American studies are another source of residing within the camp, and the spatial relationship of the information. The more contemporary articles are likely to national monument to the historic extent of the camp. The scale be quite dependable sources of historical information, model could be in the interpretive facilities or as part of a since all such articles have been peer-reviewed and most traveling exhibit. of the facts that the U.S. Government possessed on this • Have a registration book available so that visitors can record subject are now openly available. their reactions to Minidoka, and also provide additional ideas.

124 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan Educational Programs and Strategies compel interest in historically significant locales. The poems of Mitsuye Yamada are one fine example, especially as they • Develop multi-media educational materials such as DVDs, recount her life before, during, and after her time at Minidoka. videos, and encourage them to be broadcast on television. • Create a real-time media program. It could be a webcam on- Bring together an advisory group of teachers to guide site that is displayed on the Minidoka website and at off-site educational programs. locations, such as Seattle and Portland. • Provide teacher training workshops on-site during a two day • Develop a multi-disciplinary approach to convey the Minidoka period. Provide honorarium and credit to teachers for story and leverage the unique power of personal narrative to participating in workshop. Encourage teachers both nationally convey it. Recount biographies in the individual’s own words. and internationally to participate. Personal and emotional connections to history are what most

Wendell Veterans of Foreign Wars during the Minidoka Pilgrimage ceremony. June 2003. NPS Photo.

Public Involvement and Consultation 125 • Maintain a team of traveling teachers to educate about • Create an educational program targeted for the descendants of Minidoka in communities throughout the region. former internees. This type of program would encourage descendants to keep their families’ stories alive. • Develop a speaking or lecture program with a panel of experts or speakers on subjects congruent with the purpose of the national • Build a curriculum that is simple enough to teach. It should monument. comply with the “No Child Left Behind” standards. • Compile a traveling kit for teachers. The kit could include • Create a program for individuals to make commemorative artifacts, teaching plans, and could be a traveling trunk or duffle artwork. bag representative of those brought to Minidoka by internees. • Develop a living history program. • Develop a traveling exhibit that could include films, PowerPoint • Provide a bilingual interpretive program (Japanese/ English), as presentations, and workshops that accompany it. It could be many Japanese nationals have an interest in Minidoka. used by school groups, and operated by seasonal staff. It could • be based upon the average internee’s experience. Work with architecture or engineering classes at Idaho universities to build a scale model of the camp and of the water • Work locally with the Valley School, Magic Valley Alternative towers. School, and Jerome School District. Off- site Education • Minidoka educational materials and funding should be made available to the College of Southern Idaho (CSI), to augment • Develop off-site interpretation at the various “assembly center” their existing facilities and resources. The public could have locations where internees were sent prior to Minidoka and at access to these materials at CSI. some of the places where internees leaving camp were relocated. • Partner with the Idaho Council for Social Studies to promote • Provide educational information at the Eden railroad stop where Minidoka at their annual state convention or at a regional event. internees were unloaded. This location could help to provide Need a chapter in the Idaho history books about Minidoka. visitors with sense of the internees’ arrival experience. • Develop an education component to work with social studies Cultural Resources teachers, such as the National Council for Social Studies (NCSS), state departments of public instruction, etc. This should be Collections coordinated with other existing organizations beyond the borders of Idaho. • Collect and display artifacts, such as arts and crafts and scrap lumber furniture that internees created at Minidoka. • Develop a program where students could receive academic credits for participating in national monument activities, such as • Collaborate with museums and other organizations to increase archeological projects. Educational programs could also be part knowledge of and accessibility to artifacts and memorabilia of “outdoors school” in order to learn civic lessons.

126 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan curated and protected by Minidoka Internment National military... A gold star was placed by names on the Honor Roll to Monument. show that that soldier had died in combat… Pail and brush to clean shoes…” Oral History • Consider restoring recreation areas, including baseball fields, • Contact the former teachers, military police, and other staff recreation halls, etc. that worked at the Minidoka WRA Center to obtain oral histories and other information that could be used interpretively. Natural Resources • Consider contaminants from the World War II era that may be Barracks Block on-site and at the historic Minidoka Relocation Center • George Nakashima, furniture designer and architect, designed landfill, including burned coal residue, arsenic, heavy metals, and built a “model apartment” for his family at Minidoka. With radioactive isotopes, gas/diesel underground storage tanks, the help of Nakashima’s descendents, recreate the “model and residue from the historic wastewater treatment system. apartment” based on historic photographs and drawings. Visitor Use and Facilities • The bathroom, toilet, and laundry room should be authentic: ·• Visitors should be able to experience Minidoka at their own showers with no partitions, toilets with no partitions or with pace and in their own space. There should be no entrance fee cardboard boxes used for privacy, scrub boards to wash clothes, or mandatory guided tours. sheets, and towels by hand, etc. The mess halls should contain the “picnic” tables where meals were eaten with audio of three • Provide space for a bookstore and gift shop. Sell items that hundred people eating together. reflect the experiences of the internees, similar to the historic canteen items. • To reflect the complexity of historical experience, to express the values of most internees, and to show why relocation was unjust • Develop a large outdoor gathering space. and unnecessary, it is important to balance symbols of • Construct a picnic area for visitors. incarceration with those of internee life. Perhaps nothing better • Provide a classroom and discussion group area. expresses the culture, the endurance, and the vitality of internee experiences than does a garden. Thus, in addition to Fujitaro • Include copies of the Minidoka Irrigator newspaper and Hunt Kubota’s entry garden, it would be very effective to recreate Highlights at a library that it is open to the public. one or more of the gardens in front of the residential barracks. • Artists should be involved early in the development of the • Restore unpaved pathways and wooden boardwalks that the monument and their work fully integrated into the design. internees built and used at Minidoka Relocation Center. • Show the little details-”I remember the satin flags with stars hanging…to represent each family member serving in the

Public Involvement and Consultation 127 Partnerships and Outreach • Make connections with churches throughout the nation that provided Christmas gifts to children at Minidoka; outreach to • Consider partnerships with the following organizations: these communities.

o National Organizations: Japanese American Citizens • Develop a recreational program related to historic significance League(specifically chapters located in Idaho, Washington, of baseball, with teams from across the nation coming to Oregon and Alaska), Asian American Comparative Minidoka to play baseball. Collection at the University of Idaho, Smithsonian, Nisei • Veterans associations, Japanese American churches, Encourage the development of an Asian American think tank, race relations research center, conference center for seminars. state historical societies, Boy and Girl Scouts, Japanese sister city programs, Pearl Harbor Association, Land Protection and Boundaries universities and schools. • Through cooperative agreements, encourage the protection of o Idaho Organizations: Friends of Minidoka Inc., Jerome prominent topographic and landscape features and the character County Historical Society, North Side Canal Company, of the historic camp landscape. For example, use conservation College of Southern Idaho and the Herrett Center, South- easements, conservation plans, and scenic conservation Central Idaho Tourism and Recreational Development easements. Association, chambers of commerce, Idaho Farm and • Develop strategies for creative management and acquisition Ranch Museum, measures with partners (e.g. non-profit acquisition of land in o Oregon Organizations: Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center, efforts to preserve or expand national monument boundary). Oregon Cultural Heritage Commission, Four Rivers Only consider willing buyer, willing seller for boundary Cultural Center, adjustments. Condemnation is not an option. o Washington Organizations: Wing Luke Asian Museum, • Consult with the landowner to explore the remnants of the Densho Project, University of Washington Department of historic Nitta garden/Wildlife Preserve. Some internees had American Ethnic Studies, experiences there as children played there. o California Organizations: Japanese American National • To orient visitors to the site and to indicate the spatial Museum, National Japanese American Historical Society, relationship of the present-day national monument to the former Japanese American National Library, University of Minidoka Relocation Center, work with neighboring properties to California at Davis (Japanese American oral history mark the historic boundaries, guard towers, and water towers project). at the camp. Mark these locations with tall slender poles or • Keep in continuous contact with Japanese American other indicators that could be color-coded or numbered and community, as input is vital for outreach and educational referenced to a site plan drawing. outreach.

128 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan Access and Circulation Agency Consultation and Coordination • Issues and ideas to consider in the transportation study- re- routing Hunt Road, create turnouts, or construct speed bumps. 400 South should be extended as a paved through roadway, Consultation and coordination efforts were ongoing during the preparation of the general management plan. including a bridge over the North Side Canal. • Consider shuttle or transit service to the national monument The Federal Land Policy and Management Act, Title II, Section 202, with an interpretive guide or tour. This would limit the number provides guidance for coordinating planning efforts with American of vehicles on the roads in and around the national monument. Indian tribes, other federal departments, and agencies of the state and local governments. All local governments, tribal governments, • In cooperation with Amtrak, arrange for passenger train service and federal and state agencies with resource management responsi- to a stop near Minidoka Internment National Monument. Arriving bilities or interest in the planning area were informed of the plan- visitors would then be bussed to the national monument. This ning effort and encouraged to participate. could be symbolic of the transportation of arriving internees to the camp by train and bus. In keeping with the provisions of the National Historic Preservation Act- Section 106 process, the NPS Pacific West Region- Seattle Office established opportunities for interaction with tribal officials. Shoshone-Bannock Tribes were consulted for this project, however no formal response was received from the tribes.

The State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPO) were consulted con- cerning any resource management proposals that might have affected a cultural property listed on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Since the nature of the project concerned stakeholders and related sites in neighboring states, the NPS con- sulted with the SHPO in Idaho, Washington, Oregon, as well as the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.

The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA), as amended, directs every federal agency to ensure that any action it authorizes, funds, or car- ries out is not likely to jeopardize the existence of any listed species or destroy or adversely modify critical habitat (50 CFR 400). The ESA authorizes federal agencies to enter into early consultation with the USFWS to make those determinations. Formal consultation with the USFWS under Section 7b of the ESA was conducted in February 2004.

Public Involvement and Consultation 129 The Idaho Statesman Boise Print and Broadcast Media KSPD/KBXL Radio Boise KKIC/KJHY Radio Boise Throughout the planning process and at every public involvement KIDO 580 Newsradio Boise period, press releases were provided to print and broadcast media. KBSU Radio Boise Many newspapers, community newsletters, television and radio sta- KAID Television Boise tions announced the public workshops and featured stories on Buhl Herald Buhl Minidoka. The following table includes the print and broadcast media KBAR/KZDX Radio Burley that were contacted during the planning process. South Idaho Press Burley KBGN Radio Caldwell Table 8: Media Organizations on the Minidoka Internment NM Mailing KTSY Radio Caldwell List KHDT Television Caldwell IDAHO STATE MEDIA Gooding Co. Leader Gooding KORR Radio American Falls Lincoln Co. Journal Gooding Power Con. Press American Falls Wood River Journal Hailey Arco Advertiser Arco KFTZ/KOSZ Radio Idaho Falls KCVI Radio Blackfoot Post Register Idaho Falls KECN/KLCE Radio Blackfoot KUPI Radio Idaho Falls KICN Radio Blackfoot KIDK Television Idaho Falls The Morning News Blackfoot KIFI Television Idaho Falls KIVI Television Boise KID Radio Idaho Falls KBOI/KQFC Radio Boise KART/KMXV Radio Jerome KLCI Radio Boise North Side News Jerome KGEM/KJOT Radio Boise Idaho Press Tribune Nampa KQXR Radio Boise KTRV Television Nampa KANR Radio Boise Idaho State Journal Pocatello KTIK Radio Boise KOUU/KXBQ Radio Pocatello KXLT/KCIX Radio Boise KPVI Television Pocatello KARO Radio Boise KSEI/KMGI Radio Pocatello KBCI Television Boise KWIK/KPKY Radio Pocatello KTVB Television Boise KISU Television Pocatello

130 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan KBBK/KKMV Radio Rupert Globe Marysville Minidoka Co. News Rupert Reporter Mercer Island KCIR Radio Twin Falls Monroe Monitor Monroe KKVI Television Twin Falls KAPS Radio Mount Vernon K M V T Te l e v i s i o n Tw i n Fa l l s KBRC Radio Mount Vernon KTFI Radio Twin Falls Skagit Valley Herald Mount Vernon KAWZ Radio Twin Falls Daily Olympian Olympia KEZJ/KLIX Radio Twin Falls Kitsap County Herald Paulsbo Twin Falls Times-News Twin Falls KONP Radio Port Angeles KWEI Radio Weiser Port Angeles Daily News Port Angeles Weiser American Signal Weiser Channels 3 and 10 Port Angeles Independent Port Orchard WASHINGTON STATE MEDIA Leader Port Townsend KAGT Radio Anacortes Pierce County Herald Puyallup Anacortes American Anacortes KTAC AM-FM Seattle Bainbridge Review Bainbridge Is. KRAB Radio Seattle Daily Journal-American Bellevue KOMO-TV Seattle Northshore Citizen Bellevue International Examiner Seattle KGMI Radio Bellingham Northwest Asian Weekly Seattle KVOS-TV Bellingham North American Post Seattle KPUG Radio Bellingham KJR/KUBE Radio Seattle The Herald Bellingham The Seattle Times Seattle Bremerton Sun Bremerton KIRO-TV Seattle Dispatch Eatonville Post-Intelligencer Seattle The Herald Everett KUOW Radio Seattle Friday Harbor Journal Friday Harbor KMITT AM-FM Radio Seattle Peninsula Gateway Gig Harbor KCTS-TV Seattle Daily News-Journal Kent KOMO Radio Seattle The Valley Newspapers Kent KIRO Radio Inc Seattle Chinook Observer Long Beach KING Radio Seattle The Enterprise Lynnwood KING-TV Seattle

Public Involvement and Consultation 131 West Seattle Herald Seattle News Hood River KCIS/KCMS Seattle Herald and News Klamath Falls Everett News Tribune Snohomish KFLS Radio Klamath Falls Valley Record Snoqualmie KOTI-TV Klamath Falls KHQ Radio Spokane KAGO Radio Klamath Falls KHQ-TV Spokane West Linn Tidings Lake Oswego KXLY Radio Spokane Daily Argus Observer Ontario KXLY-TV Spokane The Asian Reporter Portland KSAPS-TV Spokane Yuuyake Shimbun Portland Spokesman-Review Spokane Oregonian Portland KGA Radio Spokane Associated Press Portland Tacoma Daily Index Tacoma Willamette Week Portland KTPS-TV Tacoma KATU-TV Portland Morning News Tribune Tacoma KPTV-TV Portland The Columbian Vancouver Portland Observer Portland Beachcomber Vashon KGW-TV Portland Union-Bulletin Walla Walla KINK Radio Portland Kenmore Northlake News Woodinville KOIN-TV Portland Weekly Woodinville Daily Journal of Commerce Portland OREGON STATE MEDIA Statesman-Journal Salem KAST Radio Astoria Post Sandy Daily Astorian Astoria Appeal Tribune Silverton KVAS FM Astoria The Dalles Chronicle The Dalles Record-Courier Baker Times (Tigard) Beaverton NATIONAL JAPANESE AMERICAN MEDIA Valley News Beaverton Genki Publishing Boston, MA Clackamas County News Estacada Epic World Tokyo, Japan Register Guard Eugene The Florida News Miami, FL News-Times Forest Grove J Desk International Hartland, WI Gresham Outlook Gresham Midamerica Guide Chicago, IL Argus Hillsboro Chicago Shimpo Chicago, IL

132 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan Radio KZOO Honolulu, HI East West Journal Honolulu, HI Hawaii Hochi Honolulu, HI OCS America Long Isl., NY TV-JAPAN New York, NY Plaza Tsushin New York, NY U.S. Nippon Communications New York, NY U.S. Frontline News New York, NY Nihon Keizai Shimbun New York, NY Asahi Shimbun New York, NY Japanese Daily Sun New York, NY Japan Media Productions New York, NY Yomiuri American (NY) New York, NY Tokyo TV Broadcasting Brisbane, CA Kempo Television Network Diamond Bar, CA Gateway USA Los Angeles, CA Rafu Shimpo Los Angeles, CA Nihon Keizai Shimbun Los Angeles, CA Japan Television Network San Francisco, CA Radio Mainichi San Francisco, CA Hokubei Mainichi San Francisco, CA Nichi Bei Times San Francisco, CA Fax Mainichi USA Santa Monica, CA BRIDGE U.S.A. Torrance, CA Radio Pacific Japan Torrance, CA Yomiuri America Torrance, CA

Public Involvement and Consultation 133 134 Minidoka Internment National Monument General Management Plan