Invitation to Participate in Skagit Wild and Scenic River Studies

Date: October 1, 2008

ROSS LAKE NATIONAL RECREATION AREA General Management Plan includes proposals for considering designation of the Skagit River as a Wild and Scenic River. The comment period is open until October 31.

The preliminary results of the Skagit Wild and Scenic River Studies, and forums shared thoughts and concerns, and issues with the public and the planning team.

Two meetings were held.

The first was in Seattle on October 14 and the second was on Wednesday, October 15 at

North Cascades National Park Headquarters in Sedro-Woolley.

The National Park Service is conducting studies on the Skagit River from below Gorge Dam to the Ross Lake National Recreation Area boundary, and the largest tributary in this reach, Goodell Creek, to determine if these river segments are eligible and suitable for inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic River System. These studies are part of a larger planning process for Ross Lake National Recreation Area.

The public is encouraged to visit https://parkplanning.nps.gov/rola to view the "Skagit Wild and Scenic River Eligibility Suitability Studies Newsletter," provide feedback on wild and scenic river designation, and sign up for the mailing list. Select "Ross Lake NRA General Management Plan and EIS," then "Open for Public Comment," and then "Skagit Wild and Scenic River Eligibility and Suitability Studies Newsletter." The formal public comment period ends on October 31, 2008.

Note to Editors: Photos and maps are available. Please call Susan Rosebrough at [phone] or e-mail [e-mail] with your request.