Notice of Availability of Draft Environmental Assessment and Land Protection Plan, Proposed Establishment of Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge, Marshall, McCracken, and Graves Counties, KY

Résumé

This notice advises the public that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, proposes to establish a national wildlife refuge in the vicinity of Marshall, McCracken, and Graves Counties, KY. The purpose of the proposed refuge is to protect, enhance, and manage approximately 18,000 acres of wetlands, bottomland hardwoods, and associated buffer areas for the benefit of migratory and resident waterfowl, neotropical migratory birds, resident wildlife, plant communities, and other species dependent on the diverse habitats along the East Fork of the Clarks River. A Draft Environmental Assessment and Land Protection Plan for the proposed refuge has been developed by service biologists in coordination with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and local county officials. The assessment considers the biological, environmental, and socioeconomic effects of establishing the refuge. The assessment also evaluates three alternative actions and their potential impacts on the environment. Written comments or recommendations concerning the proposal are welcomed and should be sent to the address below.