Concessioners play a significant role in providing services to many of the over 270 million visitors to the National Park Service (NPS) system each year. Concessioners are private businesses that operate under contracts with the NPS to provide facilities and services, such as lodging, food, merchandising, marinas, and various guided services. In Aug. 1998, it was reported that the condition of lodging facilities varied considerably from park to park and was at times quite poor. Concerned about these varying conditions, this report identifies: factors affecting the condition of lodging facilities in the NPS system: and options to addresses these factors. Photos.

This report addresses the major performance and accountability challenges facing the Department of Labor as it seeks to promote the welfare and economic security of the nations work force and ensure that workplaces are safe and healthy. It includes a summary of actions that Labor has under way to address these challenges and outlines further actions that GAO believes are needed. This analysis should help the new Congress and administration carry out their responsibilities and improve government for the benefit of the American people.