DNR, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Environmental assessment for statewide public water access development available for comment

Ashley Spratt, 612-713-5314

Paul Glander, 612-713-5134

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in coordination with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is seeking comments from the public on a draft generic Environmental Assessment (EA) for the construction of public water access (boat launching) sites in Wisconsin. The draft generic EA evaluates two action alternatives, along with the “No Action” alternative as required under the National Environmental Policy Act.

Under the preferred alternative, the Wisconsin DNR would continue to use Federal Sport Fish Restoration Act funds to construct and renovate public water access sites throughout Wisconsin. A site-specific worksheet would be developed for each new access site under the generic EA.

Other alternatives being considered include:

– a reduced level of public access development work by the DNR without the use of federal funds, and

– no new public construction/renovation work (relying instead on private efforts to meet the public’s water access needs).

Print copies of the draft EA may be obtained from Jim Ritchie, Public Waterways Access Coordinator, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, 2300 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Milwaukee, WI 53212, or by calling (414) 263-8670 or emailing Jim.Ritchie@Wisconsin.gov

Written comments on the EA may be submitted to Jim Ritchie during the 30-day public review period from July 26 to August 26.

For more information on the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program visit http://www.fws.gov/midwest/FederalAid/.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov.