Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Moose-Wilson Corridor Draft Plan-EIS Public Review and Comment Period Extended Through January 30th

Grand Teton National Park Service has extended the public review and comment period for the Moose-Wilson Corridor Draft Comprehensive Management Plan / Environmental Impact Statement (Draft Plan/EIS) through January 30, 2016. The comment period, which began on October 29, was initially scheduled to end on December 29. The extension brings the total public review and comment period to 93 days.

While the NPS is working to complete the planning effort in an accelerated timeframe, the planning team determined that it was important to allow additional time at this step in the process. "We are looking for substantive and thoughtful feedback that will help us make a well informed final decision," said Superintendent David Vela. "This extension beyond the upcoming holiday season will help support these interests."

The planning team will host an informational and interactive public open house tomorrow, December 9th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Teton County Library in Jackson, Wyoming. Those attending will have the opportunity to learn more about the Draft Plan/EIS, ask questions about the alternatives and the analysis used to identify the preferred, and provide feedback.

While all public comments are informative, the planning team is particularly interested in feedback regarding the accuracy and adequacy of the information and analysis presented in the Draft Plan/EIS. The planning team is looking for any new information, suggestions, or ideas that will improve the analysis and ultimately strengthen the Plan/EIS. Once a Record of Decision is signed in the fall of 2016, the document will guide future management of the corridor.

Hikers could be directly impacted, depending on which plan is ultimately adopted by the park. In particular, three of the four options under consideration could impact the current location of the Death Canyon Trailhead. I spelled out those plans in a post published on 10/30/15.

The Draft Plan/EIS is available for viewing and download on the NPS Planning, Environment and Public Comment website at go.nps.gov/mwplan under the "Documents" tab. Those wishing to comment can provide their thoughts electronically by selecting "Open for Comment" on the website. Comments can also be submitted by standard mail to Grand Teton National Park, ATTN: Moose-Wilson Planning Team, PO Drawer 170, Moose, WY, 83012-0170, by hand delivery to park headquarters in Moose, or during the open house event. Public comments and the names of those making them may be released to the public at any time in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
HikingintheSmokys.com

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