Earlier this month the National Park Service released their new draft management plan for the New River Gorge National River.  The analysis accompanying the plan explores five alternatives representing different strategies that are all targeted at protecting the ecological, cultural, historical, and recreational values of the river corridor.  The Park Service has selected their prefered alternative and has requested public comments on their draft plan and analysis between now and April 1, 2010.  

You can access the analysis (EIS) and the draft plan here.  Chapter 3 of the EIS includes maps depicting the various alternatives.  We encourage paddlers to dig into these documents and let the NPS know what you think.  American Whitewater staff would appreciate it if you would also share your comments with us at: kevin@americanwhitewater.org.  We will be drafting comments on the plan and will share these comments with you as far in advance of the deadline as possible. 

Participating in the development of management plans is one of the best ways to ensure a positive future for our favorite parks and forests.  The managers at the New River Gorge have worked extremely well with the paddling community over the years, and we look forward to reviewing and offering our thoughts on the draft plan.