Designation does not open private lands to public access. The management plan should seek to minimize trespassing by guiding people to public facilities. National Wild and Scenic Rivers enjoy a measure of predictability relative to future compatible land uses and development. It has been shown that because scenic and other values are maintained, designation has a positive impact on property values. The ability to buy and sell property is not affected by designation.
Public involvement is the most important ingredient in the study process.
Formation of a Citizen's Task Force is a normal part of the study process. Through the Task Force, local issues related to the river can be identified, and ways to address those issues can be established. It is through this process that local citizens can develop a plan requiring federal agencies' compliance.