Extension of Public Comment Period for Draft Off-Road Vehicle Plan

Date: July 21, 2014
Contact: Wouter Ketel, 252-728-2250, ext. 3014

HARKERS ISLAND, NC–On May 23, 2014, the National Park Service released a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for its Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Management Plan at Cape Lookout National Seashore (CALO) for a 60-day public comment period. Following a recent request for an extension, the comment period will be extended 45 days, to September 4, 2014.

The purpose of this Plan/DEIS is to evaluate whether to allow ORV use at the Seashore. If ORV use is permitted, this Plan/EIS will address how to manage that use in compliance with the Seashore's enabling legislation, executive orders, NPS management policies, and other laws and regulations to ensure protection of the natural, cultural, and recreational values of the Seashore's dynamic coastal barrier island environment for present and future generations.

The Plan/DEIS analyzes 5 alternatives (the no action alternative, plus 4 action alternatives, one of which proposes prohibiting ORV use at the Seashore).

It is not necessary for individuals, organizations, and agencies that have already commented to do so again, unless they wish to submit a new comment. CDs of the DEIS are available and can be requested at 252-728-2250, ext. 3014. The DEIS is available online at:

https://parkplanning.nps.gov/CALO-ORV-DEIS

Individuals and organizations can submit comments on the Plan/DEIS either online or by mail.

• Online at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/CALO-ORV-DEIS

• By mail, postmarked by September 4, to:

Superintendent, Cape Lookout National Seashore

131 Charles Street

Harkers Island, NC 28531