Invitation to Comment and Attend Public Open Houses

Please join us the week of June 22, 2009, for open houses on the preliminary alternatives. For your convenience, we have scheduled fi ve identical open 

houses in Van Buren, Eminence, Salem, Columbia, and St. Louis. See the table below for specifi c dates, times, and locations. If you are unable to or 

prefer not to attend, you can still ask questions of or provide input to the planning team using the postage-paid comment form found inside the enclosed 

Summary Newsletter and Comment Form; the general management plan website at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/ozar (or via the link on the national 

riverways website www.nps.gov/ozar); or by letter to: Superintendent, Ozark National Scenic Riverways, P.O. Box 490, Van Buren, Missouri 63965. 

Comments are welcome at any time, although comments received by July 31, 2009, will be most helpful.

City Date Time Location

Van Buren Monday, June 22 5:00 –8:00 p.m. Van Buren Community Center, Intersection of Business 60 and D Highway

Van Buren, Missouri 63965

Eminence Tuesday, June 23 5:00 –8:00 p.m. Eminence High School, new gym, College Avenue, off Hwy. 19

Eminence, Missouri 65466

Salem Wednesday, June 24 5:00 –8:00 p.m. Ozark Natural and Cultural Center, 202 South Main Street (Hwy. 19)

Salem, Missouri 65560

Columbia Thursday, June 25 3:30 –7:00 p.m. Courtyard by Marriott-Columbia, MO, 3301 Lemone Industrial Blvd.

Columbia, Missouri 65201

St. Louis Friday, June 26 3:30 –7:00 p.m.. Crowne Plaza Hotel St. Louis-Clayton, 7750 Carondelet Ave.

St. Louis, Missouri 63105

Preliminary Alternatives

Dear Friends of Ozark National Scenic Riverways,

As most of you know, we have been working on a General Management Plan / Wilderness Study for Ozark National Scenic Riverways. This 

plan will establish the national riverways’ management direction and help guide our decisions for the next 15 to 20 years. We have learned 

a great deal and have been challenged and inspired by your thoughtful comments and willingness to share your feelings about this special 

place. Through this newsletter you have another opportunity to learn the latest in our thinking and provide your comments.

We appreciated hearing and reading your thoughts, ideas, hopes, and concerns for the future of the national riverways, which we summarized in Newsletter #2 in summer 2007. Applying the ideas and comments we have received so far, we have developed some preliminary 

alternative visions for the future of the national riverways. These preliminary alternatives are presented in this newsletter. There is a “no-action” alternative (basically business as usual, which is required by law) and three “action” alternatives. The National Park Service’s preferred 

course of action, the preferred alternative, has not yet been identifi ed. This alternative will be developed after we hear your reactions to this 

newsletter and include them as part of the analysis process. The preferred alternative could be one of the following alternatives, or it could 

be a combination of elements from any of the alternatives. The preferred alternative will be included in the Draft General Management Plan / 

Wilderness Study.

I encourage you to continue to be involved in the future of the national riverways by providing us with your comments. For more information 

about how to comment, please see the invitation that follows.

Thank you for your continued interest and involvement with the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. We look forward to hearing from you!

Sincerely,

Reed E. Detring, Superintendent

National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Missouri

General Management Plan / Wilderness Study

Newsletter #3 • Spring / Summer 2009
page 2 • Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Preliminary Alternatives

Why Is a General Management Plan Needed at Ozark National Scenic Riverways?

What Are Alternatives, and Why Do We Develop Them?

A general management plan (GMP) for Ozark National Scenic Riverways 

ensures that National Park Service (NPS) managers and stakeholders (interested individuals, agencies, groups, and other parties) share a clearly defi ned 

understanding of the resource conditions; opportunities for visitor experiences; and general kinds of management, access, and development that will 

best achieve the national riverways’ purpose. In keeping with the National 

Parks and Recreation Act of 1978, the management plan will be the basis 

for decision-making for the national riverways and will provide guidance 

for preserving the resources for the enjoyment of future generations. This 

comprehensive plan for national riverways management is developed by an 

interdisciplinary team in consultation with other NPS offi ces; federal, tribal, 

state, and local agencies; other interested parties; and the public. 

Looking forward for 15 to 20 years, a general management plan focuses on 

what needs to be achieved over time, but not necessarily in the immediate 

future. For a park system unit like Ozark National Scenic Riverways, some 

needs may be beyond the reach of what can be accomplished within the 

federal budget. Changes in conditions, technology, and new types of partnerships may make what seems unrealistic today appear to be relatively modest 

15 or 20 years from now. Conversely, other ambitious undertakings may 

never be realized because of competing demands for limited federal funds. 

Two of the basic functions of a general management plan are to communicate 

with the public about the diffi cult balance between public stewardship and 

public expense, and to explore alternative approaches to management that 

will provide good public value over the long term.

Every national park system unit has been asked to prepare this kind of 

document since 1976 when Congress passed a law to that eff ect. Because 

of budget and staff shortfalls, the parks are scheduled for plans as money 

and people become available. The national riverways has been on the list 

for a number of years and has fi nally risen to the top. A new plan is needed 

because the last management plan was done in 1984 and many things have 

changed since then!

Developing a vision for the future of a national park system unit is the 

primary role of a general management plan. Several possible visions for the 

park unit’s future (called alternatives) are developed and analyzed before 

a preferred direction is selected. Evaluation of a set of alternatives enables 

the National Park Service and the public to compare the advantages and 

disadvantages of one course of action over another; evaluation also provides 

a sound approach to decision-making that is required by the National Environmental Policy Act.

The preliminary alternative concepts presented in this newsletter were developed by identifying diff erent ways to address stakeholder issues, interests, 

and concerns within the context of the national riverways’ legislation, its 

identifi ed purpose and signifi cance statements, and other laws and policies. 

The alternatives help to examine ways to address the following questions:

• Are existing visitation patterns and activities appropriate and sustainable, or are changes needed to protect resources or protect diff erent 

types of desired visitor experiences?

• What are the desired conditions for the national riverways’ natural and 

cultural resources, and what management strategies need to be implemented to ensure the long-term sustainability of those conditions?

Once we have heard what you have to say about these preliminary concepts, 

the planning team will develop a Draft General Management Plan / Wilderness Study / Environmental Impact Statement that will describe the alternatives and their potential impacts in greater detail.

What Is a General Management Plan?

The development of the planning alternatives was a process guided 

by an understanding of what is most important about Ozark 

National Scenic Riverways — its purpose and signifi cance. The alternatives are different approaches to managing the national riverways; 

however, in all approaches the National Park Service is required to be 

true to the different purposes of the national riverways and ensure 

that its special qualities are protected for current and future generations.

What Are the Purposes of the National Riverways?

• Preserve and protect in an unimpaired condition the unique scenic and natural values, processes, and unspoiled settings derived 

from the clean, free-fl owing Current and Jacks Fork rivers and 

the springs and caves and their karst origins;

• Provide for and promote opportunities for the scientifi c and public understanding of the natural and cultural resources;

• Offer opportunities for understanding and appreciation of the 

human experience associated with the Ozark Highlands landscape;

• Provide for uses and enjoyment of the outdoor recreational 

opportunities consistent with the preservation of the national 

riverways resources.

Why Is the National Riverways Signifi cant?

• The impressive hydrogeologic character of the Ozark National 

Scenic Riverways’ karst landscape supports an amazing variety 

of natural features, including a world-class spring system that is 

unparalleled in North America. The national riverways features 

the largest spring in the national park system, six fi rst-magnitude 

springs and spring complexes, and more than 350 other springs. 

The cave system is equally impressive with more than 338 recorded caves — one of the highest densities of any national park 

system unit.

• The national riverways contains 134 miles of clear, free-fl owing, 

spring-fed rivers. These include the Jacks Fork and Current rivers, which are two of only three Outstanding National Resource 

Waters in Missouri.

• The ancient Ozark Highlands is an important center of biodiversity in North America, including more than 200 endemic species. 

The large variety of species found within Ozark National Scenic 

Riverways is due to the rich array of aquatic, terrestrial, and subterranean habitats concentrated within its river corridors.

• The national riverways features archeological sites, historic structures, objects, and landscapes that refl ect more than 12,000 years 

of people living along, adapting to, and interacting with these 

Ozark Highland rivers.

• The complex and dynamic natural resources and systems of the 

Ozark National Scenic Riverways provide for outstanding, highquality recreational experiences on and along free-fl owing rivers. 

Purpose and Signifi cance Statements
Spring / Summer 2009 • page 3

Wilderness in the Alternatives

In 1984 the National Park Service evaluated Ozark National Scenic Riverways 

for wilderness suitability. One of the areas recognized for its wilderness 

qualities was the Big Spring tract near the lower Current River and adjacent 

to Mark Twain National Forest. At that time there were nonconforming uses 

occurring there that prevented wilderness designation. In the fi nal 1984 

General Management Plan, the National Park Service committed to do a 

formal wilderness study should those conditions/uses change. In the early 

1990s, the nonconforming uses at Big Spring were discontinued. The National 

Park Service is now moving forward with a wilderness study as part of this 

management plan. 

In preliminary alternatives A and B, there is a draft proposal for designating an 

area of about 3,400 acres in the Big Spring area as wilderness. This proposal 

does not include any part of the Current River.

A variety of recreational uses, management actions, and even facilities are 

potentially allowed in wilderness areas under the Wilderness Act of 1964 

and NPS policies. For each area, the National 

Park Service is required to determine which 

recreational activities would be appropriate. 

Potential activities and facilities could include

the following:

• hunting and fi shing

• nonmechanized recreational uses (e.g., 

hiking, picnicking, camping, horseback 

riding)

• guided interpretive walks and on-site 

presentations

• accommodations for the disabled (e.g., 

barrier-free trails and accessible campsites)

• trails, primitive campsites, pit toilets, and 

signs necessary for visitor safety or to 

protect wilderness resources 

• emergency actions and equipment in lifethreatening situations

• fi re management activities (including fi re 

suppression)

• preservation of historic structures

• scientifi c activities, research, and monitoring

The Wilderness Act also specifi cally prohibits certain uses and developments in 

wilderness areas, as follows:

• permanent improvements or human habitation

• structures (historic structures are excluded)

• permanent and temporary roads

• use of motor vehicles and motorized equipment (except for emergency 

purposes)

• other forms of mechanical transport (e.g., bicycles)

• commercial services (except for those necessary for recreational or other 

wilderness purposes of the area, such as guiding and outfi tting)

General management plans for national 

park system units, including the national 

riverways, are required to address user 

capacity management. The National Park 

Service defi nes user capacity as the type 

and level of use that can be accommodated 

while sustaining the quality of the park unit’s 

resources and visitor opportunities consistent 

with the purposes of the park unit. 

Management zones, discussed later in the 

newsletter, provide the foundation for user 

capacity management decisions by identifying 

the desired conditions and visitor experiences 

for various areas of the national riverways. 

Once those zones are established, the staff 

then develops various strategies to ensure 

that those conditions and experiences are 

met. Determining user capacity does not 

necessarily involve identifying a “magic 

number” for visitor use, and it does not 

necessarily imply strict use limits. NPS 

managers could develop a variety of strategies 

to prevent conditions such as unnecessary 

damage to resources, diminished visitor 

enjoyment, displacement of visitors, or 

expensive repairs arising from use of an area. 

User Capacity
page 4 • Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Preliminary Alternatives

The following is a presentation of the preliminary alternative concepts, 

including visitor experiences and activities, interpretation and education, 

natural resources conditions, cultural resource conditions, facilities and visitor 

services, and possible wilderness designation for the national riverways.

• No-Action Alternative

• Alternative A

• Alternative B

• Alternative C

Overview

The no-action alternative describes how Ozark National Scenic Riverways has 

been and continues to be managed. It refl ects current resource conditions and 

trends, existing recreational opportunities, types of development, and levels 

of service. It also describes ongoing management issues, such as resource 

degradation and visitor confl icts. The primary purpose of describing the noaction alternative is to provide a baseline for comparing the other management 

alternatives.

The no-action alternative is a description of on-the-ground management 

conditions rather than a reiteration of existing planning documents for the 

national riverways. The 1984 General Management Plan, 1989 River Use 

Management Plan, and the 1992 “Statement of Management” all provide a 

basis for understanding the current management approach. However, these 

documents are not always an accurate refl ection of adaptive management 

approaches taken by NPS staff to address unforeseen or emerging issues. The 

following briefl y describes diff erent aspects of the national riverways’ current 

management approach, as it is being implemented.

Visitor Experiences and Activities

Under current management, a wide variety of visitor experiences and 

recreational activities would continue to occur. River recreation primarily 

includes canoeing, kayaking, tubing, rafting, johnboating, and fi shing, and 

diff erent stretches of the river provide diff erent boating experiences. The 

upper Current River is a high-density canoe use area due in part to the river’s 

shallow depth and narrow, winding course. The frequency of river access 

points along this stretch allows for fl oat trips of one day or less. The lower 

Current River has much less canoe use than on the upper portion, and fl oat 

trips are generally longer in duration. Motorboating is heaviest in this area due 

to the river’s deeper, wider channel. Jacks Fork is attractive to fl oaters yearround, with the upper portions having more use during higher fl ows in the 

spring. Boating use on the Jacks Fork is typically not as heavy as on the Current 

River.

Ten river-use management zones were established by the national riverways 

in 1989 to help ensure that overuse of the river does not occur. These zones 

set horsepower limits on motorboats and maximum numbers for canoes 

within the national riverways, excluding the Van Buren and Eminence gaps. 

Concessioners also have maximum daily limits on boat rentals to prevent 

crowding. Despite these management strategies, a frequent complaint is 

that there are far too many tubing, canoeing, rafting, and boating parties 

on the river. Another recurrent complaint is that there is too much lewd 

visitor behavior and the river is no longer family friendly. NPS managers are 

continuing to take steps to improve conditions for families.

Under this alternative, the variety of land-based recreational opportunities 

would continue to be off ered to visitors, including hiking, horseback riding, 

hunting, picnicking, and camping. Horseback riding in the form of large trail 

ride events has grown substantially in recent years, especially along the Jacks 

Fork and Upper Current rivers. Primary issues include confl icts between 

equestrians and other users, water quality impacts from horse manure, and 

inadequate trails to accommodate current levels of use.

Visitor Services and Facilities

Visitor orientation and information services would continue to be available 

at NPS headquarters in Van Buren, at the multiagency visitor center in Salem, 

and at a few contact points and ranger stations throughout the national 

riverways. Major recreation sites can be found at Akers, Pulltite, Round Spring, 

Alley Spring, Two Rivers, Powder Mill, and Big Spring. These areas include 

visitor facilities for day use and overnight camping. Existing visitor services 

would also continue, which might include equipment rentals, restrooms, and 

in some cases concession stores and food services. Developed campgrounds 

range in size from 55 to 220 campsites — the two largest are at Alley Spring 

and Big Spring. Rental cabins would also continue to be available at Big Spring. 

Smaller recreation sites with facilities for day and overnight use include 

Cedargrove, Jerktail, Blue Spring, Log Yard, and Gooseneck. River access, 

primitive camping, restrooms, and parking would continue to be provided at 

various sites along the rivers.

There are 23 commercial operators that provide services to visitors. These 

businesses would continue to operate under their existing contracts to provide 

visitor support and river recreational services, such as canoe, tube, and raft 

rentals and shuttle services. 

There are 347 miles of roads in the national riverways — 54 miles are paved, 

123 miles are graded, and 147 miles are two-track dirt roads. Diff erent 

segments of the road network are managed by the National Park Service or 

state or county agencies. The 72 miles of trails are designated for hiking and/

or horseback riding. Management issues include resource impacts and visitor 

confl icts resulting from illegal off -road and all-terrain vehicle uses.

Interpretation and Education

Under current management, a variety of interpretive and educational programs 

would continue to be provided for visitors. The goal of these programs is 

to ensure that visitors have all the information needed to fully enjoy and 

experience the national riverways through (1) promoting individual awareness 

about the facilities, features, and activities available to them, (2) interpreting 

the cultural and natural features of the area, and (3) educating visitors on the 

safe and proper use of national riverways resources.

Natural Resource Management

Natural resource management would continue to preserve and protect the 

natural resources, processes, systems, and values of the national riverways 

in accordance with NPS policies. In particular, programs would emphasize 

protection of outstanding natural features, including sites that encompass 

geological, scientifi c, and ecological characteristics that warrant special 

protection. Examples include caves, springs, and other rare habitats that 

support threatened and endangered species. Ongoing programs also include 

the administration of scenic easements on privately owned tracts, collaborative 

management eff orts on state-owned lands, and management of agricultural 

leases to preserve certain pastoral landscapes within the national riverways’ 

boundary.

Ongoing natural resource management issues include water quality 

degradation from recreational use (e.g., human waste from fl oaters, soil 

erosion from off -road vehicles, horse manure, and exhaust from motorboats); 

habitat fragmentation and trail proliferation from illegal off -road vehicles; 

the spread of nonnative invasive plant and animal species; visitor-related 

disturbances to wildlife; and land uses and activities that occur outside the 

boundary that impact national riverways resources, including water quality.

Cultural Resource Management

Cultural resource management would continue to include eff orts to preserve 

historic structures, archeological resources, and cultural landscapes in 

accordance with NPS policies. Cultural resource programs would also include 

adaptive reuse of some historic structures; management of some historic 

cemeteries (i.e., provide appropriate access); the study of Ozark folklife; and 

the preservation and cataloging of historic objects, documents, and other 

collections. Cultural resource management issues include the ongoing illegal 

removal of artifacts, vandalism of historic structures, and disturbance of 

archeological sites.

Wilderness

Under the no-action alternative, the Big Spring tract would not be proposed 

for wilderness designation. This area would, however, continue to be protected 

from activities that would diminish its natural, primitive character.

No-Action Alternative

Preliminary Alternative Concepts
Spring / Summer 2009 • page 5

Overview

Management would focus on creating visitor experiences and resource 

conditions that are reminiscent of those that occurred when the national 

riverways was established. Management would emphasize greater 

opportunities for traditional, nonmechanized forms of recreation and visitor 

experiences that are quieter, less crowded, and slower paced.

Visitor Experiences and Activities

Visitors would have opportunities to fl oat secluded stretches of the river 

where they would not experience the sights and sounds of motorized boats 

or vehicles. Along other stretches of the river, visitors would encounter low to 

moderate densities of lower horsepower motorboats that evoke the traditional 

johnboat river experience. Traditional, family-oriented recreation would 

also be emphasized, including activities such as guided fl oat trips, gravel bar 

camping, and fi shing. Motorized forms of recreation would be de-emphasized. 

Visitor Services and Facilities

Only a network of designated roads, trails, and river crossings would be 

retained to provide access for specifi c recreational activities and administrative 

purposes. Management would close roads and trails that have been illegally 

developed. Native vegetation impacted by these unauthorized routes would 

be rehabilitated. Commercial services might be limited or modifi ed along 

diff erent portions of the rivers to achieve desired visitor experiences and 

resource conditions.

Interpretation and Education

Management would strive to enhance visitor awareness of the continuum 

of people’s cultural connections to the area that spans thousands of years. 

Living history programs would be emphasized to provide visitors with a 

better understanding of traditional, subsistence ways of life in the Ozarks. 

For example, an interpretive “fl oat camp” would be developed to let visitors 

experience what river recreation was like in the past. 

Natural Resource Management

The natural resources would be maintained or restored to more pristine 

conditions that lack signs of substantial development or use. The emphasis 

would be on restoring degraded biological communities and improving the 

overall natural setting. 

Cultural Resource Management

Management would emphasize the protection and preservation of 

archeological resources, historic structures, and cultural landscapes, including 

the restoration of select open fi elds to preserve pastoral scenes.

Wilderness

The Big Spring tract 

would be proposed for 

wilderness designation. 

It would be managed 

under the primitive 

zone, with some 

additional special 

management restrictions 

to be consistent with the 

Wilderness Act.

Overview

Management would enhance opportunities to discover and learn about the 

national riverway’s natural wonders and Ozark heritage. NPS staff would strive 

to improve visitors’ connection to the natural, cultural, and scenic elements 

of the national riverways with the major goal of helping improve visitor 

appreciation of its resources.

Visitor Experiences and Activities

A manageable mix of traditional recreational activities, such as fl oating, 

boating, and horseback riding, would still be provided. Also, a variety of both 

guided and self-guided activities would be off ered to help visitors discover the 

array of both natural and cultural resource-based opportunities available and 

increase visitor awareness of the many special resources and values.

Visitor Services and Facilities

Additional trails (some with universal accessibility) would be developed for 

visitors to access a network of “discovery sites.” A network of small learning 

centers, with educational and interpretive programs and exhibits, would be 

developed to better orient and inform visitors. Some of these facilities would 

include classrooms and might provide some limited quarters for visiting 

experts. 

Interpretation and Education

Self-guided interpretive opportunities would provide visitors with a sense 

of being the fi rst to discover remote, hard-to-fi nd places, such as an old 

cabin or a secluded spring. Guided opportunities would include ranger-led 

tours of special features, such as old settlements, caves and springs, and river 

environments. This would help reach visitors who are looking for diff erent or 

additional activities to the traditional fl oat trip. Resource management staff 

would develop opportunities for visitors and volunteers to engage in handson resource management projects. Learning center programs could provide 

more structured environmental education opportunities, especially for school 

groups. 

Natural Resource Management

The natural resources would be maintained or restored to more pristine 

conditions that lack signs of substantial development or use. Restoring 

degraded biological communities and improving the overall natural setting 

would be emphasized. A focused program of resource monitoring, research, 

and preservation projects would actively support and strengthen management 

capabilities and ensure accurate visitor information. 

Cultural Resource Management

Management would protect and preserve archeological resources, historic 

structures, and cultural landscapes. Selected structures and sites may 

receive special management attention to support Ozark heritage educational 

programs. A focused program of resource monitoring, research, and 

preservation projects would actively support and strengthen management 

capabilities and ensure accurate visitor information. 

Wilderness

Under this alternative, the Big Spring Tract would be proposed for wilderness 

designation. It would be managed under the primitive zone, with some 

additional special management restrictions to be consistent with the 

Wilderness Act.

Alternative A

Alternative B
page 6 • Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Preliminary Alternatives

Overview

Management would primarily seek to provide a diversity of outdoor 

recreational opportunities and experiences while maintaining the highly scenic 

natural setting and cultural resources.

Visitor Experiences and Activities

Visitors would have opportunities to experience a diverse range of motorized 

and nonmotorized recreational activities in a variety of outdoor settings. 

Visitors would encounter more intensive management to ensure that greater 

levels and types of visitor use do not cause excessive impacts on national 

riverways resources or diminish public safety. Visitors would experience higher 

levels of social interaction, especially during the peak season. Opportunities 

for community and family gatherings would be emphasized.

Visitor Services and Facilities

Additional facilities would be necessary to accommodate higher levels and 

diff erent types of visitor use. There would be more types of designated 

camping opportunities, including primitive, semi-primitive, semi-developed, 

and developed sites. There would also be more boat ramps and trails for 

hiking and horseback riding.

Interpretation and Education

Interpretive and educational opportunities would expand for visitors to 

connect with the natural and cultural resources while improving their outdoor 

recreation skills. The goal of such programs would be to encourage resource 

stewardship and low-impact recreational uses. Example activities could 

include boating safety, safe hunting and fi shing practices, and traditional Ozark 

lifeway skills. 

Natural Resource Management

Natural resources would be managed to provide high-quality scenery. There 

would be a higher tolerance for resource impacts in more heavily used areas. 

Impacted environments would be stabilized or restored to retain the natural 

settings. Monitoring eff orts would be emphasized to track natural resource 

conditions so that unacceptable impacts from recreational activities do not 

occur.

Cultural Resource Management

Management would protect and preserve archeological resources, historic 

structures, and cultural landscapes. Opportunities would be expanded for 

visitors to access and experience historic structures and cultural landscapes 

throughout the national riverways. To accommodate more visitors, some 

historic structures and sites may require more intensive management actions to 

protect resource integrity. Eff orts to track cultural resource conditions would 

be emphasized so that unacceptable conditions do not occur.

Wilderness

There would be no proposal to designate the Big Spring tract as wilderness; 

however, it would be zoned as primitive to protect the area’s natural, primitive 

character.

Alternative C

The NPS planning process requires that the planning alternatives propose 

management zones for areas within the national riverways boundary. For 

Ozark National Scenic Riverways, zones would be applied only to the Current 

and Jacks Fork rivers and those land areas for which the park has fee title 

ownership. Lands with timber or scenic easements are managed by the legal 

requirements of the easement and are not zoned. Private lands within the 

boundary are not zoned. 

Management zones tell how areas of the national riverways would be 

managed in the future. Management zones describe a range of desired 

resource conditions and visitor experiences and include statements about the 

appropriate kinds and levels of management, use, and facilities in each zone. 

The management zones will provide primary guidance for decision-making at 

the national riverways and will form the core of the general management plan.

Management zones are combined in diff erent ways to refl ect the concept 

proposed for each alternative. The following seven preliminary management 

zones have been developed for Ozark National Scenic Riverways. As shown 

in the 11” X 17” management zones table insert, management zones provide 

a framework for further site-specifi c planning and management decisions 

on the use and the protection of resources (see following summary of the 

management zones).

Land-based management zones:

• developed

• resource-based recreation

• natural

• primitive

River-based management zones:

• nonmotorized

• mixed use (motorized and nonmotorized boats)

• seasonal mixed use

Management Zones
Summary of Land-based Management Zones 

Developed Resource-based 

Recreation Natural Primitive1

Zone

Summary

Areas that support moderate to 

high levels of development and 

visitor services to accommodate 

concentrated visitor use and 

diverse recreational,

educational, and interpretive 

opportunities. 

A majority of the administrative 

facilities for operations and 

maintenance would be in this 

zone.

Areas that support moderate 

levels of visitor use to 

accommodate a wide range of 

recreational, educational, and 

interpretive opportunities. 

Although some resource 

modifications could occur, 

natural and cultural resources 

would remain largely intact. 

Areas that support the broader 

ecological integrity of the national 

riverways. Natural processes 

dominate, and only low-impact 

recreational activities would be 

allowed. 

Visitors would be immersed in 

nature, with opportunities to 

enjoy solitude and natural sights 

and sounds. 

Areas that retain their wild, 

natural character. Natural 

resources and processes would 

be preserved to maintain their 

pristine conditions and 

ecological integrity. 

Opportunities would be 

provided for visitors to 

experience backcountry 

challenges and solitude. 

Overall Natural 

Resource

Condition

Natural resources would be 

managed to accommodate 

facilities for NPS operations and 

concentrated visitor use. 

The affects of developments 

and visitor use on the natural 

surroundings would be 

minimized through planning 

and design efforts. 

Resources would be maintained 

in their natural condition, yet 

modified where necessary to 

provide distinct visitor 

opportunities and experiences. 

Modifications would be 

aesthetically blended with the 

environment as much as 

possible. 

Ecological integrity would be 

maintained by preserving and 

restoring natural resources and 

processes through an integrated 

natural resource management 

approach. 

Emphasis would be placed on 

protecting outstanding natural 

features and habitats for rare and

endangered species. 

Natural systems and processes 

would function independent of 

human intervention. 

Natural conditions would only 

be restored when disturbed by 

human use. 

Overall

Cultural

Resource

Condition

Cultural resources eligible for or 

listed on the National Register 

of Historic Places would be 

protected and managed 

consistent with the Secretary’s

Standards.

All other cultural resources 

would be evaluated to 

determine if they should be 

preserved, stabilized, restored, 

or left unmaintained. 

Selected cultural resources 

would provide distinct visitor 

opportunities and experiences, 

and would be the backdrop for 

interpretation, visitor use, and 

services where appropriate. 

Cultural resources eligible for or 

listed on the National Register 

of Historic Places would be 

protected and managed 

consistent with the Secretary’s

Standards.

All other cultural resources 

would be evaluated to 

determine if they should be 

preserved, stabilized, restored, 

or left unmaintained. 

Selected cultural resources 

would be preserved to reflect 

their period of significance, 

allowing people to experience

these resources first-hand and 

learn about their associated

stories and events. 

Cultural resources eligible for or 

listed on the National Register of 

Historic Places would be protected 

and managed consistent with the 

Secretary’s Standards.

All other cultural resources would 

be evaluated to determine if they

should be preserved, stabilized, 

restored, or left unmaintained. 

Selected cultural resources would 

be preserved or stabilized to 

provide opportunities for visitor 

use and education. 

Cultural resources eligible for or 

listed on the National Register 

of Historic Places would be 

protected and managed 

consistent with the Secretary’s

Standards.

All other cultural resources 

would be evaluated to 

determine if they should be 

preserved, stabilized, restored, 

or left unmaintained. 

Selected cultural resources 

would be preserved or 

stabilized to provide 

opportunities for visitors. 

Overall Visitor 

Experience

Visitors would have 

opportunities to better 

understand the national 

riverways’ significant resources 

and values; interact with other 

visitors and NPS staff; and

recreate in a safe environment 

that is supported by a variety of 

visitor services. 

Visitors would experience a 

modified natural environment 

that is designed to 

accommodate moderately to 

highly concentrated visitor use 

levels. 

See the recreation activities

table for a list of opportunities 

available to visitors in this zone. 

Visitors would have 

opportunities to participate in a 

range of recreational, 

interpretive, and educational 

opportunities. 

Visitors would experience a 

mostly natural setting where 

some visitor services are 

available to accommodate 

moderate levels of use. 

A moderate to high density of 

visitors would be 

accommodated, especially at 

key access points and along 

trails during the peak season. 

See the recreation activities

table for a list of opportunities 

available to visitors in this zone. 

Visitors would encounter intact 

natural resources, features, and 

systems for personal inspiration, 

education, and recreation. 

Experiences could include 

opportunities for solitude, 

contemplation, and self-reliance. 

Areas would be managed for low 

levels and densities of visitors, 

especially during the off-season. 

See the recreation activities table 

for a list of opportunities available 

to visitors in this zone. 

Visitors would be immersed in a 

primitive, wild setting with 

opportunities to experience 

backcountry challenges, 

solitude, and self-reliance. 

Visitors would have a sense of 

remoteness and isolation from 

the sights and sounds of other 

people. 

Areas would be managed for 

low levels and densities of 

visitors year-round. 

See the recreation activities

table for a list of opportunities 

available to visitors in this zone. 

Types and

Levels of 

Facilities

There could be a moderate to

high level of facilities to meet 

visitor use and administrative 

needs. 

Facilities could include visitor 

centers, contact stations, 

museums, exhibits, developed 

campgrounds, cabins, lodges, 

restaurants, restrooms, picnic 

grounds, pavilions, kiosks, 

research stations, administrative 

buildings, maintenance shops, 

wastewater treatment plants,

and storage areas. 

A medium to high density of 

road and trail networks would 

be provided for visitor access. 

There could be a moderate level

of facilities for the purpose of 

directing visitor use, enhancing 

recreational opportunities, and 

protecting resources. 

Facilities could include semideveloped and semi-primitive 

campsites, picnic grounds, 

vault-toilet restrooms,

maintenance shops, and 

storage areas. 

A low to medium density of 

road and trail networks would 

be provided to ensure safe 

visitor access and protect 

resources. 

Facilities would be limited to 

those essential for resource 

protection, research, monitoring, 

and basic visitor services. 

Facilities that are not consistent 

with the desired resource 

conditions could be removed or 

modified. 

Facilities could include semiprimitive and primitive campsites, 

pit toilets, and remote storage 

areas. 

A low density of road and trail 

networks would be provided to 

ensure that the natural setting

and resources are protected. 

Minimal developments would 

be allowed for the protection of 

natural resources and to allow 

for dispersed low-impact visitor 

use. 

Facilities that are not consistent 

with the desired resource 

conditions could be removed. 

Facilities could include a limited 

number of primitive campsites 

and trails. 

A low density of unpaved trails 

would be provided for visitor 

access.

Types and

Levels of 

Service

A moderate to high level of 

visitor services would include 

orientation and interpretive 

programs, signs, wayside 

exhibits, commercial operations, 

convenience stores, restaurants, 

and shuttle services. 

A moderate level of visitor 

services would be provided, 

such as orientation and 

interpretive programs, signs and 

wayside exhibits, and 

commercial services. 

Low levels of visitor services 

would be provided, such as 

informational signs and wayside 

exhibits. 

Directional signs would be 

provided at trailheads. Limited 

interpretive materials might be

available to promote safe and 

responsible recreation. 

 

1

 If the Big Spring area is designated wilderness, some additional special management restrictions would also apply to this area.
Summary of River-based Management Zones 

(Includes the rivers up to the ordinary high-water mark.)

Mixed-Use Seasonal

Mixed-Use Nonmotorized

Zone Concept Sections of the river that support a mix of 

motorized and nonmotorized boating 

opportunities. 

Visitor encounters would typically be 

moderate to high, especially during peak 

use. 

The natural setting would predominate, but 

the sights and sounds of human activity 

would be prevalent. 

Sections of the river that support a mix of 

nonmotorized and lower horsepower 

motorized boating opportunities during the 

low-use season (after Labor Day to 

Memorial Day). The rest of the year, only

nonmotorized boating would be allowed. 

The natural setting would predominate, but 

the social setting would vary seasonally 

with the types of allowable activities and 

levels of use. 

Sections of the river that accommodate 

year-round, nonmotorized boating 

opportunities. 

Visitors would experience an unaltered river 

system where natural sights and sounds 

would predominate, except during peak 

use when recreational activity would be 

more apparent.

Overall Natural 

Resource

Condition

The natural resource conditions in the river 

corridor would be managed to ensure that 

the free-flowing clear, clean water of the 

river is not degraded. 

Resource conditions would be enhanced by 

regulating motorboat horsepower. 

The natural resource conditions in the river 

corridor would be managed to ensure that 

the free-flowing clear, clean water of the 

river is not degraded. 

Resource conditions would be seasonally 

enhanced by limiting these portions of the 

river to nonmotorized boating only. 

The natural resource conditions within the 

river corridor would be managed to ensure 

that the free-flowing clear, clean water of 

the river is not degraded. 

Resource conditions would be enhanced 

year-round by limiting these portions of the 

river to nonmotorized use. 

Overall Cultural 

Resource

Condition

Cultural resources eligible for or listed on 

the National Register of Historic Places

would be protected and managed 

consistent with the Secretary’s Standards.

All other cultural resources would be 

evaluated to determine if they should be 

preserved, stabilized, restored, or left 

unmaintained. 

Cultural resources that are subject to bank 

erosion, slumping, subsidence, or other 

natural deterioration might be stabilized 

using best management practices. 

Cultural resources eligible for or listed on 

the National Register of Historic Places

would be protected and managed 

consistent with the Secretary’s Standards.

All other cultural resources would be 

evaluated to determine if they should be 

preserved, stabilized, restored, or left 

unmaintained. 

Cultural resources that are subject to bank 

erosion, slumping, subsidence, or other 

natural deterioration might be stabilized 

using best management practices. 

Cultural resources eligible for or listed on 

the National Register of Historic Places

would be protected and managed 

consistent with the Secretary’s Standards.

All other cultural resources would be 

evaluated to determine if they should be 

preserved, stabilized, restored, or left 

unmaintained. 

Cultural resources that are subject to bank 

erosion, slumping, subsidence, or other 

natural deterioration might be stabilized 

using best management practices. 

Overall Visitor 

Experience

Visitors would have opportunities to 

engage in a diverse mix of motorized and 

nonmotorized boating experiences. 

Sights and sounds of recreational activities 

would be prevalent, with limited 

opportunities to experience natural sounds 

and solitude, especially at peak times of the 

year. 

These sections of the river would be 

managed to accommodate moderate levels

of boaters during most of the year. 

No motorized wheeled vehicles would be 

allowed in or along the river, except at 

designated river fords. Horseback riding 

would be limited to designated river fords 

only.

See the recreation activities table for a list

of opportunities available to visitors in this 

zone, including horsepower restrictions for 

boats. 

Visitors would have the opportunity to float 

the river without the disruption of 

motorized boats during the peak season. 

During the off-season, visitors would have 

opportunities to engage in a mix of lower 

horsepower motorized and nonmotorized 

boating experiences. 

These sections of the river would be 

managed to accommodate low to 

moderate levels of boaters during most of 

the year, with periods of higher use 

allowed on weekends. 

No motorized wheeled vehicles would be 

allowed in or along the river, except at 

designated river fords. Horseback riding 

would be limited to designated river fords 

only.

See the recreation activities table for a list

of opportunities available to visitors in this 

zone, including horsepower restrictions for 

boats. 

Visitors would have the opportunity to float 

the river without disruptions from 

motorized boats year-round. 

During low periods of use, visitors would 

be able to experience the natural 

soundscape of the river. 

These sections of the river would be 

managed to accommodate low to 

moderate levels of boaters during most of 

the year. 

No motorized boats or wheeled vehicles 

would be allowed in or along the river. 

Horseback riding would be limited to 

designated river fords only. 

See the recreation activities table for a list

of opportunities available to visitors in this 

zone.

Types and Levels 

of Facilities 

Low to moderate levels of development 

could be provided to accommodate 

launching and retrieving motorized and 

nonmotorized boats on the river. 

Facilities could include developed boat 

launches, restrooms, picnic tables, and 

trash receptacles at designated river access 

points.

Locating new developments or 

improvements in the floodplain would be 

avoided where possible. 

A low to moderate density of designated 

river access points and a low density of 

designated river fords would be provided. 

Low to moderate levels of development 

could be provided to accommodate 

launching and retrieving motorized and 

nonmotorized boats on the river. 

Facilities could include developed boat 

launches, restrooms, picnic tables, and 

trash receptacles at designated river access 

points.

Locating new developments or 

improvements in the floodplain would be 

avoided where possible. 

A low to moderate density of designated 

river access points and a low density of 

designated river fords would be provided. 

Low levels of development could be 

provided to accommodate launching and 

retrieving nonmotorized boats on the river.

Facilities could include semi-developed boat 

launches, restrooms, picnic tables, and 

trash receptacles at designated river access 

points.

Locating new developments or 

improvements in the floodplain would be 

avoided. 

A low density of designated river access 

points would be provided. There would be 

no designated river fords. 

Types and Levels 

of Service 

Commercial shuttle services would be 

provided to boat launch areas. Orientation 

and interpretive signs and informational 

bulletin boards would be available. 

Visitors would have a moderate to high 

likelihood of encountering NPS staff. 

On the river, there would be moderate to 

high frequency of NPS patrols during the 

peak season. 

Commercial shuttle services would be 

provided at boat launch areas. Orientation 

and interpretive signs and informational 

bulletin boards would also be available. 

Visitors would have a moderate to high 

likelihood of encountering NPS staff. 

On the river, there would be moderate to 

high frequency of NPS patrols during the 

peak season. 

Commercial shuttle services would be 

available at boat launch areas. Orientation 

and interpretive signs and informational 

bulletin boards would also be available. 

Visitors would have a moderate to high 

likelihood of encountering NPS staff. 

On the river, there would be a low to 

moderate frequency of NPS patrols, except 

during the peak season when patrols 

would be more frequent.
Spring / Summer 2009 • page 7

Management Zone Mapping

For each of the action alternatives — A, B, and C — a set of maps has been 

prepared showing the application of the zones based on the alternative 

concepts. The maps are divided by north and south segments of the Current 

River and the Jacks Fork River.

There are no proposed management zone maps for the no-action alternative. There were some management zones developed for the 1984 General 

Management Plan; however, these are not presented because the NPS 

approach to zoning has changed signifi cantly and an updated management 

zoning approach is required. Also, diff erent from the 1984 plan, this planning eff ort will not apply any management zones to easements or private 

lands.

As the following pie chart shows, the national riverways has fee title ownership to approximately 65% of the lands within the boundary. The management zones are applied to these lands only.

Developed Natural

TYPES OF ACTIVITIES

Picnicking s s s s s s

Camping, amenities 

provided s s 

Camping, no 

amenities s s

Camping on gravel 

bars s s s

Lodging s 

Hiking s s s s

Horseback riding at designated fords

Bicycling on roads s s 

Scenic viewing/ 

nature observation s s s s s s s

Interpretive talks, 

demonstrations s s s s s s s

Hunting and trapping s s s s s s

Fishing*** s s s

Caving guided

Swimming s s s

Canoeing, kayaking, 

rafting, tubing s s s

Motorized boating 

ResourceBased

Recreation

Primitive Nonmotorized

River

Mixed-use

River

Seasonal**

Mixed-use River

sIndicates activity is appropriate in zone identified.

 * HP-horsepower is measured at the boat engine’s powerhead.

** Seasonal motorized boating would be allowed after Labor Day to Memorial Day.

***Fishing is not allowed in springs.

on designated trails

s

s s s

s

s s s

Note: ATVs are allowed only on designated roads per state law.

25 or 40 hp limits*

(see maps)

10 or 25 hp limits*

(see maps)

on designated trails at designated fords at designated fords

The chart below is a quick reference showing the activities people currently enjoy at the national riverways and the management zone in which they could be 

enjoyed.

Recreational Activities by Management Zone

11%

24% 65%

Land Ownership within Park Boundary 

Private lands

with easements

State and private lands

without easements

NPS lands

NOTE:

The following 

maps are 

designed, through 

fold-out pages, 

to allow readers 

to compare 

alternatives 

for each river 

segment.
page 8 • Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Preliminary Alternatives

19

119

Ashley Creek

Big Creek

Gladden Creek

Sinking Creek

CURRENT RIVER

Spring Valley Creek

SunklandsNatural Area

Baptist

Cedargrove

Welch Landing AKERS

PULLTITE

ROUNDSPRING

0 6,000 12,000 18,000 Feet

MATCHLINE NORTH SEGMENT SOUTH SEGMENT

Inset of Ozark National Scenic Riverways

AUpOzaNatioMar 

North

Devils Well

Current River State P(north side river only

Montauk State Park

Nichols Cabin
Spring / Summer 2009 • page 9

19

119

Ashley Creek

Big Creek

Gladden Creek

Sinking Creek

CURRENT RIVER

Spring Valley Creek

SunklandsNatural Area

Baptist

Cedargrove

Welch Landing AKERS

PULLTITE

ROUNDSPRING

0 6,000 12,000 18,000 Feet

MATCHLINE NORTH SEGMENT SOUTH SEGMENT

Inset of Ozark National Scenic Riverways

AUpOzNatiMar 

North

SEASONAL 25 HP

Devils Well

Current River State P(north side river only

Montauk State Park

Nichols Cabin
19

119

Ashley Creek

Big Creek

Gladden Creek

Sinking Creek

CURRENT RIVER

Spring Valley Creek

SunklandsNatural Area

Baptist

Cedargrove

Welch Landing

AKERS

PULLTITE

Devils Well

ROUNDSPRING

Current River State Pa(north side river only)

Montauk State Park

Nichols Cabin

0 6,000 12,000 18,000 Feet

MATCHLINE NORTH SEGMENT SOUTH SEGMENT

Inset of Ozark National Scenic Riverways

AlUpOzaNatioJune 2

North

25 HP

SEASONAL 10 HP
page 11 • Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Preliminary Alternatives ! !

!

!

!

!

!

ALLEY SPRING

EMINENCE

Shawnee Creek

TWO RIVERS

POWDER MILL

Roberts Field

Log Yard

PECK RANCH

WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT 

RockyFalls

Prairie Hollow GorgeNatural Area

Mill MountainNatural Area

Stegall MountainNatural Area

106

Little Shawnee Creek

Big Creek

Ozark Trail

Alley SpringNatural Area

Pioneer Natural Area

Current RiverSection

Inset of Ozark National Scenic Riverways

0 6,000 12,000 18,000 Feet

AlteUppeOzark NNational PMar 2009 / DS

North

SEE JACKS FORK AND LOWER CURRENT MAP

19

19

Jerktail Landing

Powder Mill CaveNatural Area

Rocky Creek

Mill Creek

CURRENT

RIVE

R

MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FOREST

Shawnee

Cree

k

Rocky Falls Spur

MATCHLINE NORTH SEGMENT SOUTH SEGMENT 

Open here
page 12 • Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Preliminary Alternatives

ALLEY SPRING

EMINENCE

Shawnee Creek

TWO RIVERS

POWDER 

Roberts Field

Lo

PECK RANCH

WILDLIFE MANAGEM

RockyFalls

Prairie Hollow GorgeNatural Area

Mill MountainNatural Area

Stegall MountainNatural Area

106

Little Shawnee Creek

Big Creek

Alley SpringNatural Area

PioneerNatural Area

Current RiverSection

Inset of Ozark National Scenic Riverways

0 6,000 12,000 18,000 Feet

AlUpOzaNatioMar 2

North

MATCHLINE NORTH SEGMENT SOUTH SEGMENT

SEE JACKS FORK AND LOWER CURRENT MAP

19

19

Jerktail Landing Powder Mill Cave Natural Area

Rocky Creek

Mill Creek

CURRENT

R

MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FOREST

Shawnee

Cree

k

Rocky Falls Spur
40

40

!

!

!

!

!

!

ALLEY SPRING

EMINENCE

Shawnee Creek

TWO RIVERS

POWD

Roberts Field

PECK RANC

WILDLIFE MANAGEM

RockyFalls

Prairie Hollow GorgeNatural Area

Mill MountainNatural Area

Stegall MountainNatural Area

106

L 

ittle Shawnee

Creek

Big Creek

Alley SpringNatural Area

PioneerNatural Area

Current RiverSection

Inset of Ozark National Scenic Riverways

0 6,000 12,000 18,000 Feet

AUONaJun

North

SEE JACKS FORK AND LOWER CURRENT MAP

19

19

Jerktail Landing

Powder Mill CaveNatural Area

Rocky Creek

Mill Creek

CURREN

MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FOREST

Shawnee

Cree

k

Rocky Falls Spur

MATCHLINE NORTH SEGMENT SOUTH SEGMENT
Bay Creek

Bay Creek

Barn HollowNatural Area

60

60

17

106

17

99

103

103

19

SUMMERSVILLE

JACKS FORK

Alley SpringNatural Area

VAN BUREN

ALLEYSPRING

Rymers

Blue Spring

MOUNTAINVIEW

BIRCHTREE

Buck Hollow

Jacks Fork

Potential Wi

MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FOREST

MARK T

NATIONAL 

0 6,000 12,000 18,000 Feet

AJaOzNatiMar 

North

60 

Inset of Ozark National Scenic Riverways

page 14 • Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Preliminary Alternatives
Bay Creek

Bay Creek

Barn HollowNatural Area

60

60

Buck Hollow

17

106

17

99

19

JACKS FORK

Alley SpringNatural Area

VAN BUREN

ALLEYSPRING

Rymers

Blue Spring

MOUNTAINVIEW

BIRCHTREE

Jacks Fork

Potential Wi

MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FOREST

MARK T

NATIONAL 

SUMMERSVILLE

0 6,000 12,000 18,000 Feet

AJaOzNatMar 

North

Inset of Ozark National Scenic Riverways

103

103

60

Spring / Summer 2009 • page 15
Spring / Summer 2009 • page 16

Bay Creek

Bay Creek

Barn HollowNatural Area

60

60

Buck Hollow

17

106

17

99

19

SUMMERSVILLE

JACKS FORK

VAN BUREN

Big Spring Pines Natural Area

ALLEYSPRING

Rymers

Blue Spring

MOUNTAINVIEW

BIRCHTREE

Jacks Fork

MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FOREST

MARK T

NATIONAL 

E

0 6,000 12,000 18,000 Feet

AJaOzNatiMar 

North

Inset of Ozark National Scenic Riverways

103

103

60
River-based Management Zones

Distribution of Zones by Alternative

The following pie charts compare the relative distribution of the land-based and river-based zones by alternative.

Land-based Management Zones

page 18 • Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Preliminary Alternatives

1% 3%

69%

27%

Alternative A

Development

Resource-Based

Recreation

Natural

Primitive

49%

Alternative A

Mixed-Use

Seasonal

Mixed-Use

Nonmotorized

51%

54%

Alternative B

Mixed-Use

Seasonal

Mixed-Use

Nonmotorized

28%

18%

71%

Alternative C

Mixed-Use

Seasonal

Mixed-Use

Nonmotorized

10%

19%

1%

13%

69%

17%

Alternative B

Development

Resource-Based

Recreation

Natural

Primitive

6%

60%

24%

10%

Alternative C

Development

Resource-Based

Recreation

Natural

Primitive
SSTEP AND 

TIMEFRAME

PLANNING ACTIVITY PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS

1

Completed

Initiate Project

The planning team assembles, begins to identify the project’s scope, 

customizes the planning process, and begins to establish contacts with 

participants.

2 

Completed

Defi ne Planning Context and Foundation

The planning team examines and reaffi rms the purpose and 

signifi cance of the national riverways, and determines the primary 

issues and concerns for the management plan. Team members collect 

and analyze relevant data and public comments. 

Newsletter #1, Summer 2006, solicited public comments and concerns 

about the national riverways’ future. Public meetings were held in Van 

Buren, Eminence, Poplar Bluff, Salem, and St. Louis.

Newsletter #2, Summer 2007, provided a summary of the public’s 

comments and concerns. It also described actions taken to respond to 

concerns about inappropriate visitor behaviors.

3 (We are here)

Fall 2007 to

Fall 2009

Develop and Evaluate Alternatives

Using staff and public input from step 2 above, the planning team 

identifi es a range of reasonable alternatives for the future of the 

national riverways, presents preliminary alternatives to the public, 

analyzes public reactions, and selects a preferred alternative.

Read this newsletter (Newsletter #3) and send us your ideas and 

comments. Attend public meetings to provide additional input.

4

Winter 2010 to

Summer 2011

Prepare and Publish the Draft General Management Plan / Wilderness 

Study / Environmental Impact Statement

A draft plan will be published and distributed to the public. The draft 

document will describe the alternatives and their impacts. 

Read the draft plan and send us your ideas and comments via mail 

or the Internet. Attend public meetings and the wilderness study 

hearing(s) to provide more input.

5

Fall 2011 to

Fall 2012

Revise Draft Plan and Publish the Final General Management Plan / 

Wilderness Study / Environmental Impact Statement

The team will analyze public comments on the draft document, 

prepare responses to substantive comments, and make appropriate 

revisions to the draft document. The fi nal document will then be 

distributed to the public

Read the fi nal document.

6

Winter 2012 

and beyond

Implement the Approved Plan

A “Record of Decision” will be issued to adopt the approved 

management plan. The approved plan will then be implemented 

as funding allows. The fi ndings of the wilderness study will be 

transmitted, as appropriate, to the NPS director, secretary of the 

interior, president, and Congress. 

Stay involved throughout the implementation of the approved plan. 

You will have opportunities to comment on future implementation 

projects.

The Planning Process Schedule

This newsletter was printed with soy-based inks on recycled paper.

Spring / Summer 2009 • page 19

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Thank You for Your Interest in Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways • Missouri

General Management Plan / Wilderness Study

Newsletter #3 • Spring / Summer 2009