News Release

National Park Service Issues Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for Comprehensive Trails Management Plan / Environmental Assessment

Date: February 10, 2023
Contact: Beth Wheeler, [phone]

Sandy Springs, GA.- The National Park Service (NPS) Interior Region 2 Regional Director approved the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the Comprehensive Trails Management Plan Environmental Assessment (EA) for Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Alternative 2, the preferred alternative, was selected. The FONSI, EA, and related documents are available on the NPS Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) website.

Under the selected alternative, major redesigns to the park’s trail network will increase available trail mileage, improve physical and social sustainability, and better protect park resources. Park-specific trail classes, design specifications, and maintenance standards will help park staff and volunteers improve the quality of existing trails and achieve greater resource stewardship. The selected alternative also employs visitor use management strategies to help reduce user conflicts, mitigate impacts to park resources, and preserve a high-quality visitor experience on park trails.

“I am pleased that our team has completed this monumental planning process,” said Superintendent Ann Honious. “Implementing this plan in phases over the coming years will allow us to positively transform the park’s trails system and created a wide spectrum of trail-based experiences for visitors to enjoy. We look forward to working alongside park partners, volunteers, and user groups to bring this plan to life".

In addition to the FONSI, a Superintendent’s Written Determination on Bicycle Use must be completed pursuant to the NPS Bicycle Rule (36 CFR 4.30). This Written Determination affirms that the authorization of bicycle use on new trails in the Plan’s selected alternative is consistent with the protection of the park’s natural, scenic, and aesthetic values, safety considerations and management objectives, and will not disturb wildlife or park resources. The Park is working through the rule-making process and will make the Written Determination available for public comment.