WSP02222 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

. . :" 13. INELIGIBLE SEGMENTS. Conservationists in particular have questioned the conclusions of the Study Team regarding the main stem of the Dolores from its source downstream to Rico, and from the confluence with the San Miguel River to Gateway. Why were these segments ruled out? .;., Upper Main Stem: This IS-mile segment was judged ineligible for inclusion in the National System because it lacked any "outstandingly remarkable" qualities as specified in the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. It is, accurately, a typical high mountain stream - no more, no less. Nine miles of this stretch are paralleled by a paved state highway. Main Stem from San Miguel Confluence to Gateway: This 3D-mile segment was judged ineligible for several reasons. First and foremost, it is a heavily developed stretch of the river; a paved state highway follows it for 26 miles; mining activity, both past and present, is frequently visible; farming and ranching along the river are widespread. In addition, the segment lacks outstanding features, except perhaps geologic. Recreational attributes and use are low, and scenic resources moderate at best. The Study Team did recognize exceptional values in the 4-mi1e stretch immediately below the confluence where the canyon is deep and dramatic and the old Hanging Flume is of unique historic interest; howev~r, this portion is simply too short for inclusion in the national system by itself. 14. MANAGEMENT PLAN A number of individuals wondered how the Management Plan for those segments of the Dolores included in the National System will be developed. And when? The Study Team is empowered to develop a conceptual plan only for those segments it recommends for inclusion in the national system. By "conceptual," we mean it will be like a preliminary blueprint - a jumping-off point for the preparation of a final, working manage- ment plan. \\ The latter plan will be developed only if Congress approves one or more segments of the Dolores for inclusion in the national system. In that case, the Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and the State of Colorado will have a year to prepare a detailed, concrete plan. This will allow adequate timo for specific input from concerned and affected persons. .I 15. ADDITIONAL INPUT. Almost everyone who wrote the Study Team wanted (implicitly or outright) to know when and how they'd have a chance to add more comment on the Dolores, the present study, and future actions. 9 0755