But the Wild and Scenic Rivers law is not intended to stop people from using the river, officials said. In their plan, officials allow rebuilding of damaged Yosemite Lodge units in a location within one-quarter mile of the river, the corridor width considered generally acceptable in the law. The National Park Service should use the uniform and standard measure of one-quarter mile on each side of the Merced. Officials said science data indicate most of the proposed lodge units would not be in the flood plain, though they would be within the quarter-mile corridor. Officials also are being criticized for designated areas at Camp Six and Taft Toe where controversial parking might be allowed.
People fight the idea of taking any more Yosemite Valley land for parking.
Environmentalists say the lodge and parking considerations are proof that Yosemite officials are allowing valley planning to influence river protection. Yosemite officials deny that the Merced River plan is being structured around the valley planning. The river plan reflects knowledge gained in seven years of valley research, said Chip Jenkins, chief of strategic planning at the park. We move forward from that level of knowledge. We don't just chuck it out the window.