The Act does call on federal agencies to encourage local land use planning, but state or local governments cannot be forced to adopt ordinances. These designations are very different, but often confused with each other. The goal of a national park is to preserve the physical or biological environment. Wilderness sites are established in pristine areas or areas that are reverting to natural conditions, with the goal of preserving undeveloped places for a variety of natural and recreational values. In contrast, National Wild and Scenic Rivers are established to maintain traditional river uses along with natural resources, scenery, recreational uses, historical values, and existing land uses within the river corridor.
People play a very important, active role as part of the river's environment.
The boundaries of a designated river are determined by the physical and biological characteristics of the river corridor. The corridor boundary must be sufficient to protect the important river-related resources, and may not extend beyond the river's influence. Boundaries are set according to the specific conservation needs of the river. During the study period, an interim boundary is set at one quarter mile from the mean high water level of the river. Ongoing regular uses of private lands will not be affected.