Plan Process

Buffalo National River is in the early stages of developing a river management plan. The National Park Service is seeking YOUR input to help inform the planning process. Public comments are crucial to the planning process and will help the National Park Service analyze ideas proposed by the public and stakeholders to inform the development of the plan. By considering your input, the National Park Service will be better able to develop and evaluate proactive strategies to meet the NPS mission while improving opportunities for visitors to experience the beauty of Buffalo National River.


This is the beginning of a multiyear process and the first of three opportunities for public input. Other upcoming opportunities to comment on the development of the plan are listed in the planning schedule below.

An asterisk (*) indicates the current step in the planning process.

*August 16 to September 15, 2024 -
30-day public comment period to provide early input in the planning process

Anticipated Winter 2024/2025 -
Development of draft plan

Anticipated Spring/Summer 2025 -
Public meeting on plan progress and opportunity for public input

Anticipated Fall 2025 -
Development of draft plan

Anticipated Winter 2025/2026 -
Public meetings on draft plan and opportunity for public input

Summer 2026 -
Estimated plan completion