LAND MANAGEMENT ZONING

The park is divided into several zones based on management objectives, significance of the resources, and legislative constraints. The zoning plan describes the land use policies that management will work to achieve over the life span of this plan. These zones sometimes overlap, as in the case where outstanding natural features and highly significant archeological resources coincide in a designated area. As a result, management decisions must be based on equal recognition of both resources.

Natural Zone

Wilderness Subzone. All lands included in the administration's wilderness recommendation and land proposed to be added to this recommendation make up this subzone. Natural systems and processes will be permitted to follow their courses with minimum intrusion by man. The number of visitors will be limited to levels which do not significantly affect natural environments.

Environmental Protection Subzone. Lands within this subzone have been dedicated to scientific research, and no management actions will be allowed that might interfere with this use.

Outstanding Natural Feature Subzone. This subzone contains natural features of outstanding significance which are not within proposed wilderness areas. Management will provide maximum protection from man's activities.

Natural Environment Subzone. Roads, picnicking areas, and trailheads are permitted in this subzone, but development will be minimal.

Cultural Zone

Historical Subzone. This subzone is comprised of architecturally and historically significant cultural resources. Management emphasis will be on preservation of these resources unless such action causes unacceptable alteration of natural resources or processes.

Archeological Subzone. This subzone is comprised of archeological districts and overlies several other zones. Management emphasis will be on preservation of the archeological resources within the subzone.

Development Zone. This zone contains developments required for visitor use and park operations. It will occupy the least amount of space necessary to achieve park objectives.

Special-Use Zone

Reservoir Subzone. The reservoirs which comprise this subzone are managed by the San Francisco Water Department under terms of the Raker Act.