The OIG investigated allegations that a National Park Service (NPS) biologist took video footage at several national parks without a commercial filming permit, ran a commercial video business, sold his videos online, and was involved in publishing four books, all without seeking advice from an ethics official.
Our investigation substantiated that the biologist took commercial video footage at national parks without a commercial filming permit in violation of Federal regulations and NPS policy. Officials at seven of the national parks where the biologist had taken video verified that he had not been issued permits. The biologist admitted he failed to obtain the required permits.
We further determined the biologist may have violated ethics regulations by owning and operating a commercial video footage business without obtaining approval for outside employment. He acknowledged he had owned and operated a video production company, which he used to sell video footage online. The biologist also acknowledged he was involved in the publication and sale of four books, one of which was authored by a family member and contained photographs the employee took while on duty with NPS.
We issued the report to the Acting NPS Director for any action deemed appropriate.