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02/07/2008: "SJI National Park Draft Plan Available"

Three alternatives have been examined in a draft general management plan and environmental impact statement for San Juan Island National Historical Park; and one of them has been declared the “preferred alternative”; but the Park Service is required to receive any public input that is offered, before final action is taken.

Thursday, Feb 7, from 4 to 6 p.m.& 7 to 9 p.m. two public meetings were held on the Draft Plan at the Mullis Senior Center in FH to explain the plans and to take public comment..

The National Park Service (NPS) draft plan is a response to planning requirements and to issues identified during a completed scoping process. These alternatives address visitor use and the preservation of cultural and natural resources to protect and interpret the sites of the American and English camps, and of commemorating the historic events that occurred from 1853-1871 on the island in connection with the final settlement of the Oregon Territory boundary dispute, including the so-called Pig War of 1859.



Alternative A is the No Action Alternative and assumes that existing programming, facilities, staffing, and funding would generally continue at their current levels. The primary emphasis of the No Action Alternative would continue to be protection and preservation of cultural resources.

Alternative B general concept is to increase visitor use opportunities and outreach at both English Camp and American Camp and in the town of Friday Harbor through additional visitor facilities, recreational opportunities, programs, and services. Interpretation would be enhanced for both cultural and natural interpretive themes through more extensive facilities and programs.

Alternative C is the National Park Service’s preferred alternative. Whatever alternative or combination of alternatives is approved will become the general management plan for the park.

Alternative C, the Preferred Alternative, would broaden the scope of resource management and interpretation programs to emphasize the connections and interrelationships between the park’s natural and cultural resources. New facilities, trails and programs would provide opportunities for visitors to understand the importance of the park’s natural resources in defining the cultural landscapes and influencing the settlement and historic events of San Juan Island.

The detailed description of the alternatives in the full draft plan is followed by a description of park resources and the likely environmental consequences of the alternatives. Also included are the results of initial public involvement, as well as consultation with other agencies, organizations and individuals associated with planning for the park’s future.

The draft general management plan/environmental impact statement has been distributed to agencies, organizations, and individuals for review and comment. The public comment period will last for 60 days after the Notice of Availability has been published in the Federal Register. .

For additional information about San Juan Island National Historical Park, the Draft Plan, or to submit comments, log on to parkplanning.nps.gov/sajh or contact: Superintendent Peter Dederich at 378-2902, or peter_dederich@nps.gov