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

Compatibility Determination
Use: Natural History Tours
Refuge Name: Assabet River National Wildlife Refuges
Appendix G: Final Compatibility Determinations
Establishing Authority: Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established
in 200) under an Act Authorizing the Transfer of Certain Real Property for Wildlife, or
Other Purposes. (16 U.S.C. 667b).
Refuge Purpose: Assabet River NWR’s purpose is its“...particular value in carrying out
the national migratory bird management program.” (16 U.S.C. 667b-d, as amended)
National Wildlife Refuge System Mission: To administer a national network of lands
and waters for the conservation, management, and where appropriate, restoration of the
fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats within the United States for the
benefit of present and future generations of Americans.
Description of Use:
(a) What is the use? Is the use a priority public use?
This activity consists of a group of people with a leader or guide walking or driving on
refuge property to learn about plant and wildlife species, natural processes and wetlands
and other habitats. Natural history tours will facilitate wildlife observation and
photography, environmental interpretation and education, which are priority public uses of
the refuge.
(b) Where would the use be conducted?
Natural history tours would normally occur on established refuge trails or roads.
However, tours could be conducted in other areas of the refuge with approval from the
refuge manager.
(c) When would the use be conducted?
Natural history tours would normally be conducted during hours when the refuge is open,
generally ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset. Activities held at night, such as an
owl prowl, would require approval from the refuge manager.
(d) How would the use be conducted?
Natural history tours would occur either by foot or motor vehicle.
(e) Why is this use being proposed?
Natural history tours offer an opportunity to expose visitors to the Refuge purposes and
Refuge System Mission. Some of the tours may also be birding trips. Participants gain an
extra understanding and appreciation for the Refuge and the environment.
Availability of Resources: Before groups may conduct tours on the refuge they must
obtain a Special Use Permit (SUP). The cost of preparing the SUPs for natural history
tours will be minimal. Maintenance of trails and facilities will be encompassed in costs
associated with routine refuge operations and maintenance activities.
Comprehensive Conservation Plan - 221 -