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

Appendix F: Staffing Charts
Compatibility Determination
Use: Cultural History Tours
Refuge Name: Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge
Establishing Authority: Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established
in 2000 under an Act Authorizing the Transfer of Certain Real Property for Wildlife, or
Other Purposes. (16 U.S.C. 667b).
Refuge Purpose: “...particular value in carrying out the national migratory bird
management program.” (16 U.S.C. 667bd, as amended)
National Wildlife Refuge System Mission: To administer a national network of lands
and waters for the conservation, management, and where appropriate, restoration of the
fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats within the United States for the
benefit of present and future generations of Americans.
Description of Use:
(a) What is the use? Is the use a priority public use?
This activity consists of a group of people with a leader or guide walking or driving on the
refuge to learn about its cultural history, including Revolutionary War ties, farming
communities and the former military presence. This is not a priority public use.
(b) Where would the use be conducted?
Cultural history tours would occur only on established refuge trails or roads.
(c) When would the use be conducted?
Cultural history tours would be conducted only during hours when the refuge is open,
generally ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset.
(d) How would the use be conducted?
Cultural history tours would occur either by foot or motor vehicle.
(e) Why is this use being proposed?
Cultural history tours offer an opportunity to expose visitors to the Refuge and the
mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System. In addition to learning about the history
and culture of the area, participants will have the opportunity to observe wildlife and gain
an appreciation for the National Wildlife Refuge System.
Availability of Resources: Before groups may conduct tours on the refuge they must
obtain a special use permit. The cost of preparing special use permits for the cultural
history tours will be minimal. Maintenance of the trails and facilities in areas not normally
open to the public may incur some slight additional cost, but would be offset by the benefit
to refuge staff having easier access to the refuge for wildlife management purposes.
Anticipated Impacts on Refuge Purpose: The impacts associated with this activity are
trampling of vegetation, littering, and temporary disturbance to wildlife in the area of the
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Assabet River NWR