Zasoby i środowisko · 31.08.2004

Final Notice of Intent 6/22/04

Under the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), the National Park Service (NPS) is preparing an environmental impact statement for an elk management plan for Theodore Roosevelt National Park (THRO), North Dakota. An elk management plan is needed to manage the elk population within established acceptable levels, to test for chronic wasting disease (CWD) and to identify a range of elk management strategies that are compatible with long-term protection of other park resources and natural ecosystems and processes. A number of factors contribute to the need for this plan. The elk population within the park has increased rapidly since elk were reintroduced in 1985. Due to the lack of predators, less suitable habitat outside the park and the limited movement of elk, the elk population will likely continue to grow unchecked. Excessive browsing caused by high densities of elk may adversely affect rangeland and cultural resources in the park. Furthermore, this plan is needed because the 2003 agreement related to the reintroduction of elk among the NPS, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the North Dakota Game and Fish Department indicates