The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was created by Congress in 1968 to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The Act is notable for safeguarding the special character of these rivers, while also recognizing the potential for their appropriate use and development. It encourages river management that crosses political boundaries and promotes public participation in developing goals for river protection. The introduction of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act reads as follows:
It is hereby declared to be the policy of the UnitedStates that certain selected rivers of the Nation which, with their immediate environments, possess outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural or other similar values, shall be preserved in free-flowing condition, and that they and their immediate environments shall be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations. The Congress declares that the established national policy of dams and other construction at appropriate sections of the rivers of theUnited States needs to be complemented by a policy that would preserve other selected rivers or sections thereof in their free-flowing condition to protect the water quality of such rivers and to fulfill other vital national conservation purposes.
Frequently Asked Noli Wild and Scenic Questions
What portion of the Noli is being proposed for designation?
Only the Nolichucky Gorge as it flows through public lands between Poplar, NC and Erwin, TN is being proposed for Wild and Scenic designation. The designated corridor would average one-quarter mile on either bank.
Who will manage the Noli once it is designated?
The United States Forest Service will continue to manage the river corridor, as they have for many years.
Does the railroad make the Noli ineligible for designation?
No. Plenty of designated Wild and Scenic rivers have railroads and even highways along them. The designation-worthy scenic, recreational, and geological values of the Noli are wonderful regardless of the railroad.
Hasn’t designation been tried in the past?
While the Forest Service proposed the Noli for designation in the mid-nineties, the political stars did not align for designation. Regardless, the Noli is more valuable and appreciated now than ever, and now is a great time for designation.
How would designation affect private property near the Noli?
The designation would have no effect on private property. The designation would cover only federal lands, and creates no new federal authorities on private lands.
How would designation change recreational management?
Designation leads to a Forest Service river management plan that guarantees the agency will protect the special values of the river –including recreation. Part of that plan will be a visitor capacity analysis. In most cases, rivers are found to be well under capacity, and management continues as it has in the past. This certainly appears to be the case on the Nolichucky, where solitude abounds. Limits on use are extremely rare and could occur with or without designation.
Is the Nolichucky already protected?
Yes and No. The Nolichucky Gorge is on Forest Service land, which does come with some good management requirements. Still, the designation would protect the river from being dammed and diverted, and from government actions that would harm the values that the public cares most about.
Have more questions? Check out this great Q&A search engine authored by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Council: https://www.rivers.gov/information.php