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

Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex Draft CCP/EA November 26, 2003
offers the additional opportunity for linkages with other state, private and town owned lands.
And it is also situated in the center of the proposed Freedom's Way National Heritage Area.”
One respondent urges the FWS to use the refuge principally for biological studies.
With regard to facilities, one respondent is “very interested in the potential development of a
visitor center in the area of Great Meadows NWR. We would like to explore any
opportunities to increase the public understanding of the Sudbury, Assabet River and
Concord Wild and Scenic Rivers within the educational materials and displays presented at
the visitor center.” One respondent urges the FWS to continue historical tours: “These have
been very popular and have provided a way by which some of Maynard's older residents can
view the refuge. Several such tours a year would provide access to history and wildlife
through use of a motorized van or bus.”
One organization requests clarification on facilities development “The proposed management
of public outreach is unclear. The only designated public outreach position is slotted for
Great Meadows. Does this position support all three refuges, or Great Meadows, or the
complex as a whole? Does this individual coordinate volunteer efforts and recruit volunteers
for all three refuges, or Great Meadows, or the complex as a whole?”
Some respondents complain that recreational restrictions undermine opportunities for
education at the refuge, and urge that leashed dogs and off-trail nature study and photography
be permitted. Several respondents urge the FWS to close some areas to hunting to permit
educational tours in spring and fall.
Summary of Comments 22