The Olympic National Park protects the core of the Olympic Peninsula with 95% of the park as designated wilderness. More than 3000 miles of rivers and streams flow from the high mountain peaks to the ocean. These rivers are a defining feature of the park, historically serving as primary transporation corridors through the region prior to European settlement. Today these same rivers, which flow through massive old-growth forests of the Pacific Coastal Rainforest, provide some of the country’s best opportunities to explore a primeval wilderness landscape.
In June, Olympic National Park released its General Management Plan Draft Environmental Impact Statement for public review. This is the first comprehensive planning effort undertaken by Olympic since 1976. When finalized, it will determine management directions for the next 15 to 20 years. AW is currently reviewing the plan with a focus on river protection and opportunities for the public to enjoy these rivers. Upon initial review we see additional opportunities for river protection most notably by pulling roads outside of floodplains. In the plan Wilderness is divided into Trail Zone, Primitive Zone, and Primeval Zone. Visitor opportunities for hand-powered boating would continue to be available in all three zones.
The original September 15th comment deadline has recently been extended to September 30th, 2006. Public meetings are also underway where the public can speak directly with park planning staff (meeting schedule). AW will consult with other organizations reviewing this document who are focused on river protection including American Rivers, Olympic Park Associates, and The Mountaineers.
Additional Information: Olympic National Park General Management Plan website