As access to places outside the gorge improved, Thurmond's importance declined, and area coal mines also became less productive. The most significant changes came by 1949, when the nation's railroad industry had switched from steam to diesel-powered engines. As a major center for C&O Railway's steam locomotive operations, Thurmond was the final place on this line to service steam trains, but eventually these facilities were no longer needed. Over the years, town businesses closed or moved away, as did many residents. As coal production in the gorge continued to decline, however, a new outdoor recreation industry grew. The first whitewater boating company, Wildwater, opened here in 1968, and other whitewater rafting businesses later followed. In 1978, the National Park Service established New River Gorge National River, preserving the gorge's nature, scenery, and recreational opportunities while also interpreting historic communities like Thurmond for present and future generations.