Assabet River NWR Final CCP - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Appendix C: Responses to Substantive Comments
As indicated in the draft CCP/EA, we will be investigating the impacts of jogging to
determine whether or not this is an appropriate use and a compatible use. Jogging is not a
priority public use nor is it necessary to support one of the six priority public uses.
Currently, there are a relatively high number of individuals that participate in jogging on
the refuges. Other refuges have documented impacts to wildlife caused by jogging. We
have issued a compatibility determination that indicates that, based on our current
knowledge, jogging is compatible with refuge purposes. If we gather information to the
contrary, we will issue a new compatibility determination with appropriate public comment
opportunities.
Picnicking
Some respondents view picnicking as a harmless past time that allows people to enjoy the
refuge’s beauty.
We would like to take this opportunity to clarify our position on picnicking. We believe
that the draft CCP/EA conveyed a change that we did not intent. We do not intend to
prohibit a refuge visitor from sitting on a bench or under a tree and eating a snack or
drinking a beverage. However, we will not issue permits for large events, such as family
reunions, where a meal is a normal part of the event to occur on the refuges, nor will we
provide picnic tables or specific locations for picnicking.
Bicycling
Similar to jogging, a number of commentors assert that the refuge offers a safe, trafficfree
environment for bicycling. By not allowing bicycling on the refuges, it is asserted that
the FWS will be creating a gap in the local trail systems. Some cyclists are willing to be
flexible as to when and where they can pursue their sport. Some of the commentors
suggest allowing cycling on paved roads only. Of greatest interest to many of the
commentors are the Patrol Road on Assabet River NWR and the Tank Road on Oxbow
NWR.
Bicycling is not compatible with the refuge purposes for each of the 3 refuges. Bicycles
frighten wildlife and cause changes in behavior that have potential adverse impacts to
species. While there are places where bicycling can enhance wildlife dependent
opportunities, in general the intention of a visitor on a bicycle is to engage in the act of
cycling or transportation, not to observe wildlife. The refuges are small enough that
bicycling is not needed to facilitate a wildlife-dependent public use. Additionally, while
there may be some existing roads on the refuges (particularly Assabet River NWR) which
seem to lend themselves to cycling, our long term plans for the refuges will include some
road removal and return to a natural state.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobilers describe themselves as law-abiding recreationists that are respectful of
others and wildlife. One local snowmobile club would like to establish a trail through the
refuge, maintained by the club, for the club’s enjoyment.
Comprehencive Conservation Plan - 165 -