Creating
the Rivers Conservation Plan over seven years allowed for significant
public input. The steering committee members, now continuing as
the Pine Creek Watershed Council, heard many viewpoints and had
exhaustive discussions about key issues facing the watershed’s
people and municipalities.
Throughout the watershed, residents, public officials, and volunteers
expressed great concerns that these issues may risk the very character
of the resource, changing a cherished way of life. The Rivers
Conservation Plan stresses that while there could be benefits
from the activity associated with these issues, in all cases the
natural resources and residents must come first.
The plan puts these issues right up front, because of their high
priority and potential impact. The Council has come to view these
as opportunities as well as challenges. Careful planning, cooperation,
and grassroots involvement can make the difference between pain
and gain. The plan includes a number of management options that
address these concerns.
Key issues identified
and discussed in the Rivers Conservation Plan:
