Monday, December 9, 2013

Public Scoping Period Begins for Moose-Wilson Corridor

Acting Superintendent Kevin Schneider announced last week that the National Park Service is developing a comprehensive management plan/environmental impact statement (Plan/EIS) for the Moose-Wilson corridor within Grand Teton National Park. A public scoping period for the Plan/EIS will occur from December 6, 2013 through February 6, 2014, during which time public comments will be accepted.

The purpose of the Plan/EIS is to determine how best to provide appropriate opportunities for visitors to use, experience, and enjoy the Moose Wilson area while protecting park resources and values. During the scoping period, the NPS seeks input from the public on significant issues, alternatives, concerns, opportunities, or topics that should be addressed during the planning effort. The Plan/EIS will consider a range of alternatives for the corridor's future management and will analyze potential environmental impacts associated with each alternative. Additional opportunities for public involvement will also be provided at other stages of the planning process.

The Moose-Wilson corridor comprises about 10,300 acres in the southwest corner of Grand Teton National Park. This exceptional area has a remarkable variety of natural communities, cultural and wilderness resources, and opportunities for visitor enjoyment. The Moose – Wilson Road extends 7.7 miles through the area, and is the primary access to several park destinations, including Death Canyon and Granite Canyon trailheads, Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, White Grass Ranch, and Murie Ranch historic districts, and Sawmill Ponds overlook. The corridor highlights the rich history of working ranches and the beginnings of conservation work, and provides exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing. Developing a comprehensive management plan for the corridor is critical to ensure the protection of key resources, values, and visitor experience for the enjoyment of this and future generations.

To learn more about this planning effort join the NPS at an open house in Jackson, Wyoming on Tuesday, January 14th from 5 to 8 pm in the Moose-Wapiti Classroom at St. John's Medical Center.

Additional information, including a scoping newsletter is available here. A copy of the newsletter can be downloaded through this website, and comments can be provided electronically online. You can also sign up for regular e-mail updates here.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

No comments: