GMP Alternative Announced

Date: October 22, 2007
Contact: Lorrie Sprague, 304 465-6521

NPS to Present New Alternative for Draft GMP

“In 2006, the public commented on three preliminary concepts for a long-range General Management Plan (GMP) for New River Gorge National River,” said Debbie Darden, Deputy Superintendent. “In response, we developed a fourth concept that incorporates many of the ideas expressed by the public, and we are interested to see what people like or don’t like about it.”

“This round of meetings is being held in early November - we encourage people to come and talk with National Park Service staff about this new alternative,” explained Darden, who is overseeing the planning process. “The park’s GMP will provide a framework for the protection of park resources and the provision of appropriate visitor experiences. It will also address the issues of hunting, wilderness, and boundary changes.” 

Area residents, business owners, local officials, and organizational representatives are encouraged to attend one of the meetings, which are in three locations, at different times.

Sandstone/ Tuesday, November 6th, 2007 from 5-6:30 pm
Hinton Hinton Technology Center, 301 Summers St., Hinton

Beckley Wednesday, November 7th, 2007 from 3-5pm
Tamarack Conference Center, One Tamarack Park (exit 45, I-77)

Fayetteville Thursday, November 8th, 2007 from 7-9pm
American Legion Hall, 205 W. Maple Ave., Fayetteville
 
Additional information can be found on the park website (www.nps.gov/neri), or call 304-465-6526 to be put on a mailing list to receive periodic updates on this project.