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

Compatibility Determination
Use: Wildlife Observation and Photography
Refuge Names: Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge
Appendix G: Final Compatibility Determinations
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: Assabet River NWR’s purpose is its“...particular value in carrying out
the national migratory bird management program.” (16 U.S.C. 667b-d, 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: Access to the Refuge for this activity will be achieved through
walking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Wildlife observation and photography
include walking on open and established trails to observe and/or photograph the natural
environment.
Plans for Assabet River NWR include opening approximately 15 miles of trails for wildlife
observation, photography and interpretive opportunities. These trails are being opened in
phases. Additionally, a wildlife viewing platform and photo blind will be constructed.
Photography conducted on parts of the refuge open to the general public will not require a
special use permit.
Availability of Resources: Wildlife observation and photography occur through the use
of existing staff, resources, and facilities. Existing resources for wildlife observation
include trails. The amount and character of these opportunities will be a direct reflection
of the refuge’s staff and funding levels. The following components of a wildlife observation
and photography program will need to be developed to fully implement the program
outlined in the Comprehensive Conservation Plan. Additional components may be
developed at a later date. Specific costs will be determined as implementation of the
program occurs. Some of these projects are either underway or have been completed.
Projects completed in part or in whole by volunteers require less fiscal resources.
• Construct, Improve and Maintain Accessible Visitor Trails
• Wildlife Viewing Platforms, Photography Blinds
• Rehabilitate Gates
• Repair Roads
• Remove Obstacle Course
• Develop and maintain parking areas and gates
Anticipated Impacts on Refuge Purpose: We predict that the impacts of wildlife
observation and photography uses will be minimal. Possible impacts include disturbing
Comprehensive Conservation Plan - 233 -