ISSUE: The Forest Service is revising the Sumter Forest Management Plan on the Chattooga. This plan will direct river managers’ actions over the next decade and will address development and crowding issues on this most famous Wild & Scenic river. The specter of restrictive permits has been raised, even as fees have been increased. American Whitewater is working with the Forest Planners to ensure continued access to the river, while also addressing concerns for water quality on Stekoa Creek, and concerns for social and environmental impacts related to crowding.
GOAL: American Whitewater will continue working with the Forest Planning team and our volunteers to preserve non-restrictive opportunities for access on the Chattooga, and to protect the river corridor from crowding and development.