Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge (CRNWR) is accepting comments on the proposed determinations for compatible wildlife-dependent recreation and wildlife habitat management uses. The comment period begins February 15 through March 15, 2017. A copy of the compatibility determinations is available to the public for review at the CRNWR office or on the website at http://www.fws.gov/refuge/clarks_river” www.fws.gov/refuge/clarks_river. Comments are to be as specific as possible with an explanation including sufficient information to allow authentication of data referenced.
The following activities were found appropriate and open for public comment:
Bicycle Use Boating
Ceremonies by Special Use Permit only Cooperative Farming
Collecting Natural/Cultural Resources by Special Use Permit only Dog Walking
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement and Improvement Horseback Riding
Commercial Photography by Special Use Permit only Picnicking
Commercial Guided Wildlife Observation by Special Use Permit only Recreational Fishing
Field Trails by Special Use Permit only Firewood Cutting by Special Use Permit only
Geocaching by Special Use Permit only Integrated Pest Management
Non-licensed Off-road Vehicles by Special Use Permit only Recreational Hunting
Release of Rehabilitated Wildlife (Captive or Feral) by Special Use Permit only
Scientific Research by Special Use Permit only
Unmanned Aerial Systems/Drones by Special Use Permit only
Wildlife Observation, Environmental Education and Interpretation, and Wildlife Photography
Exercise and Meditation
Please submit written comments to Refuge Manager, Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge, via email at clarksriver@fws.gov, or by mail to P.O. Box 89, Benton, KY 42025. All relevant comments will be considered before a final decision is made on in this proposal. All comments and recommendations, including names and addresses, will become part of the public administrative record.
The public use program will be reviewed annually to ensure that it contributes to refuge objectives in managing quality recreational opportunities and protecting habitats, and is subject to modification if on-site monitoring by refuge personnel or other authorized personnel results in unanticipated negative impacts to natural communities, wildlife species, or their habitats.