NWSI 2026 Addressing Misconceptions with Managing Wild & Scenic Rivers in Wilderness Areas

Description: Land Managers and Line Officers frequently have to make decisions about how to address a project on a Wild & Scenic River within Wilderness, but often don't know or are confused by which law has more authority. This session will provide a basic overview of the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act and Wilderness Act and the language found in the laws that addresses project analysis. Actual past projects will be used as examples of how to work through the analysis process and how to incorporate the intent of each law. Presenters: Eric Sandeno, National Wilderness and Wild & Scenic Rivers Information Manager (retired), Washington Office, U.S. Forest Service Mary Ellen Emerick, Natural Resource Specialist (retired), Enterprise Program, U.S. Forest Service