Comprehensive River Management Plan for the Nowitna Wild and Scenic River

Nowitna Wild and Scenic River

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (hereafter referred to as “we”) manages the Nowitna Wild and Scenic River which flows through the Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska. The Nowitna Wild and Scenic River is one of many exceptional rivers that have been designated by Congress for protection under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Wild and Scenic Rivers
The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 established the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, and authorizes Congress to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The act is notable for safeguarding the special character of these rivers, while also recognizing the potential for their appropriate use and development. The act encourages river management that crosses political boundaries and promotes public participation in developing goals for river protection.

Learn more about Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.  We are required by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to develop a comprehensive river management plan to protect the Nowitna Wild and Scenic River’s important values (free-flowing condition, water quality, and outstandingly remarkable values).

Environmental Assessment Process

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires federal agencies to assess the environmental impacts of any proposed major federal action prior to decision making. This can be done through an environmental assessment that evaluates the potential environmental impacts of a proposed action. We prepared an environmental assessment of our proposal to develop and implement a comprehensive river management plan for the Nowitna Wild and Scenic River.

Nowitna Comprehensive River Management Plan and Environmental Assessment 

Comprehensive River Management Plan 

The comprehensive river management plan contains management direction, management actions, and monitoring strategies that would be implemented to protect and enhance the Nowitna Wild and Scenic River values (free-flowing condition, water quality, and outstandingly remarkable values). 

Finding of No Significant Impact and Decision (FONSI) 

A Finding of No Significant Impact is a document issued under NEPA which concludes that a proposed action will not have significant adverse environmental effects. It summarizes the Environmental Assessment, detailing the environmental factors, alternatives considered, and the reasons why impacts are deemed not significant.

Environmental Assessment (Final) 

The Environmental Assessment evaluates the potential environmental impacts of the Nowitna Wild and Scenic River comprehensive river management plan. The assessment identifies and assesses potential positive and negative effects on environmental conditions such as hydrology, fish, wildlife and cultural resources.

We would like to extend a heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed ideas and provided comments throughout the planning process. Your involvement helped strengthen the plan and ensure lasting protection of the Nowitna Wild and Scenic River.

Cooperating Agencies 

State of Alaska 

Bureau of Indian Affairs 

Participating Communities

Tanana

Ruby

Galena

Other Contributors

Bureau of Land Management

University of Alaska, Fairbanks

AECOM