The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is extending the public comment period until January 28, 2013 to give the public more time to review and comment on the Dungeness Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment (draft plan).
“Feedback from the public is important to us. The planning process is a way for the Service and the public to evaluate management goals and strategies that will provide opportunities for the public to safely enjoy wildlife- dependent recreation at the Refuge while ensuring that wildlife and habitat conservation comes first,” said Kevin Ryan, Project Leader of the Washington Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
The draft plan was developed to provide scientifically grounded guidance for improving the Refuge’s habitats for the long-term conservation of migratory birds and native plants and animals. Three alternatives for management over the next 15 years were analyzed. The Service’s preferred alternative includes more active habitat management projects, such as invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species removal; projects in forests to manage for old growth characteristics, remove unneeded roads, and increase species diversity; enhancement of freshwater impoundment on the Dawley Unit; and research studies that answer refuge management questions.
Public uses currently occurring on the Refuge were evaluated as to their impacts on wildlife, public safety, user conflicts, and feasibility of management within available budget and staff. Proposed public use changes include new limits on boat landing hours. The existing uses of jogging and horseback riding were evaluated in accordance with the Appropriateness Policy (http://www.fws.gov/policy/603fw1.html) and the draft analysis has found that jogging is not appropriate due to wildlife disturbance and therefore would no longer be allowed. The Service has also preliminarily determined that horseback riding should no longer be allowed due to safety concerns and user conflicts. There would be more emphasis on enhancing the public’s understanding and appreciation of the refuge’s natural and cultural resources through both on- and off-refuge interpretation and education programs. There would also be more emphasis on working with existing partners and developing new partnerships to accomplish objectives.
Printed copies are available for review at the following libraries: North Olympic Library System (Port Angeles Public Library and Sequim Public Library), Port Townsend Public Library, Jefferson County Central Library, University of Washington Library, Washington State University Library, Western Washington University Library, Peninsula College Library, and Washington State Library. Printed or CD-ROM copies can be requested from the Refuge Office at (360) 457-8451.
