Final Accessibility Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan for Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is dedicated to serving all park visitors to help them find meaning within the resources of the park and its stories. To better serve, the park embarked on a journey to ensure that resources, programs, and facilities are accessible to all visitors. The park conducted an Accessibility Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan (SETP) that includes findings from the self-evaluation process and a plan for improving accessibility parkwide.

The Accessibility Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan resulted from the work of a National Park Service (NPS) interdisciplinary team, including planning, design, and construction professionals; and interpretive, resource, visitor safety, maintenance, and accessibility specialists. Site plans, photographs, and specific actions for identified park areas were developed. Associated time frames and implementation strategies were established to assist NPS park staff in scheduling and performing required actions and to document completed work. Park policies, practices, communication, and training needs were also addressed. The goals of the plan are to 1) document existing park barriers to accessibility for people with disabilities, 2) provide an effective approach for upgrading facilities, services, activities, and programs, and 3) instill a culture around creating universal access.

The following are the key park experiences and associated park areas addressed in the transition plan:

1) Experience the unique Karst-based hydrogeological system. - Alley Spring, Big Spring, Park Headquarters, Pulltite, Rocky Falls, Round Spring, Two Rivers

2) Enjoy 134 miles of clear, free-flowing rivers. - Akers, Alley Spring, Big Spring, Buck Hollow, Park Headquarters, Pulltite, Round Spring, Shawnee Creek, Two Rivers, Waymeyer/Chilton Creek Access

3) Appreciate the high-quality ecosystems and endemic species of the Ozarks. - Akers, Alley Spring, Big Spring, Buck Hollow, Park Headquarters, Pulltite, Rocky Falls, Round Spring, Shawnee Creek, Two Rivers, Waymeyer/Chilton Creek Access

4) Learn about the rich cultural history of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. - Akers, Alley Spring, Big Spring, Buck Hollow, Park Headquarters, Pulltite, Rocky Falls, Round Spring, Two Rivers

5) Explore the outstanding river and outdoor recreation experiences including hunting, fishing, horseback riding, hiking, floating, boating, and camping. - Akers, Alley Spring, Big Spring, Buck Hollow, Park Headquarters, Pulltite, Rocky Falls, Round Spring, Shawnee Creek, Two Rivers, Waymeyer/Chilton Creek Access

Overall, similar services, activities, and programs were found throughout park areas, as were assessment findings for physical and program accessibility.

Document Content:

OZAR SETP_final_508_20210414.pdf   (13.9 MB, PDF file) Disclaimer: Links within the above document(s) were valid as of the date published. Note: Some of the files may be in PDF format and can be viewed using the Adobe Acrobat Reader software. You may download a free copy of from Adobe Systems.