For Immediate Release Contact: Valerie Naylor or Bruce Kaye 701-623-4466
DECISION DOCUMENT RELEASED FOR PARK BOUNDARY EXPANSION STUDY
A Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the Theodore Roosevelt National Park Environmental Assessment for the Boundary Expansion Study has been approved by National Park Service Midwest Regional Director Ernie Quintana. However, the National Park Service does not at this time recommend the entire acreage described in the preferred alternative be added to the national park.
The National Park Service (NPS) proposed to expand the Elkhorn Ranch Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park by about 6,600 acres to protect more of Roosevelt’s original ranch. In November 2002 an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Boundary Expansion Study was released for public review and comment. Public meetings were also held across North Dakota to discuss the EA and to provide an open forum to review the proposal.
Based on review of the facts and analysis contained in the EA, Theodore Roosevelt National Park Superintendent Valerie Naylor has concluded that the Preferred Alternative for an expansion of the park boundary near the Elkhorn Ranch unit would not have a significant impact either by itself or considering cumulative impacts. Furthermore, the Preferred Alternative would not impair park resources or values and would not violate the NPS Organic Act. An environmental impact statement is not required and will not be prepared.
“The land east of the Elkhorn Ranch Unit is highly significant and needs to be protected,” said Naylor. “However, we are not recommending the addition of the entire 6,600 acres to the park.”
The NPS has determined the proposed boundary expansion meets the criteria for national significance and feasibility of administration, and merits protection for future generations. It is also recognized that there are a variety of protection mechanisms available including cooperation with others that would achieve the protection goals. Therefore, the NPS recommends acquisition of only those lands within the viewshed of the existing Elkhorn Unit and associated river lands, which was part of Theodore Roosevelt’s Elkhorn Ranch and is critical to protecting the integrity of the existing park unit.
“The NPS looks forward to working with the State of North Dakota and others to protect this area for future generations,” said Naylor. “We will continue to work toward a management approach that will protect the area while allowing traditional uses such as hunting, grazing and mineral extraction.”
The six-page FONSI is available by writing Valerie Naylor, Superintendent, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, PO Box 7, Medora, North Dakota 58645. A copy my also be obtained by calling the park office at 701-623-4466.
# # # 10/8/03
