Public Review and Comment on Draft Programmatic Compatibility Determination for Rights‑of‑Way and Rights to Access
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public review and comment on the Draft Programmatic Compatibility Determination for Rights‑of‑Way and Rights to Access for Temporary Disturbances and Minor Impacts on Conservation Easements in the Midwest Region. This draft document evaluates the compatibility of proposed activities that may cause temporary, minor disturbances while supporting necessary public infrastructure needs across conservation easements in the Midwest Region. The draft Compatibility Determination will be available for a 30‑day public comment period from June 10, 2026 to July 9, 2026. Comments, questions, or concerns can be sent to: R3Planning@fws.gov
Gravel and Spider islands were protected in 1913 by an Executive Order with the intent to preserve breeding habitat for colonial nesting birds such as herring gulls, cormorants and Caspian terns. For this reason, these wilderness islands are closed to public visitation consistent with the conservation purpose of the refuge.