Finding of No Significant Impact

The National Park Service (NPS) Mount Rushmore National Memorial (Memorial) proposes to add a multi-cultural, multi-generational backcountry trail system by 2016, which improves opportunities for visitors to discover the diversity of the park's ecosystem and cultural resources. This proposed trail system would provide new opportunities for education, interpretation and recreation. The proposed project is part of the Centennial Vision for Mount Rushmore, which seeks to become a center of excellence for sharing the story of America, for providing visitor opportunities, and for protecting resources and people (NPS 2007).

In addition to reviewing the list of significance criteria, the NPS has determined that implementation of the selected alternative will not constitute an impairment to critical resources and values of the Park. This conclusion is based on a thorough analysis of the impacts described in the environmental assessment, relevant scientific studies, the agency and public comments received and the professional judgment of the decision-maker in accordance with the National Park Service's Management Policies (2006). The Selected alternative will not result in any adverse impact to Park resources. Overall, the trail project results in benefits to Park resources and values, appreciation of the cultural and natural resources, opportunities for their enjoyment, and it does not result in their impairment.

Document Content:

Backcountry Trail FONSI   (643.3 KB, 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.