Public Input Sought On Lees Ferry Improvement Projects

These projects include the following:

• restoring the historic Weaver Ranch house and examining possible alternative uses,

• replacing the Grand Canyon whitewater rafting contact station and NPS maintenance facilities,

• replacing existing concrete and gravel boat ramps with new concrete surfaces,

• replacing the courtesy dock,

• replacing the potable water intake from the Colorado River,

• rehabilitating drainage structures along the Lees Ferry access road, and

• stabilizing the Paria River bank to protect the Lonely Dell access road and the Paria River bridge.

These improvements are necessary to repair deteriorating facilities in the Lees Ferry area and ensure they are designed to accommodate current levels of visitation. In the case of the Weaver Ranch house, the NPS is proposing to rehabilitate this historic structure and is seeking input on possible public uses of the building.

The environmental assessment will analyze the impacts these projects may have on natural and cultural resources and the quality of visitors’ experience in the area. Scoping is an opportunity for the public to comment on the issues and alternatives that should be addressed in the environmental assessment before it is prepared.

There will be another public-comment opportunity once the document is released later this spring.

All public comments must be received by April 24. Comments may be submitted

online at www,parkplanning.nps.gov/glca or by mailing them to Lees Ferry EA, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, P.O. Box 1507, Page, AZ 86040.

A scoping newsletter with additional information is available at www,parkplanning.nps.gov/glca.

The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.