The National Park Service at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area has ready for public review the Environmental Assessment that focuses on the future management of the summit of Shasta Bally Mountain. Beginning today, July 10, 2009, the EA will be available for a 30 day public review ending on August 10, 2009. The 30 day review allows interested public and private and public agencies to comment on the Environmental Assessment. Comments submitted will be reviewed and analyzed and the final Environmental Assessment will consider all relevant comments.

The Environmental Assessment has five alternatives, a No Action Alternative and four Action Alternatives. The National Park Service has selected its Preferred Alternative as Alternative F.  Alternative F allows the existing telecommunication companies and local, state and federal agencies that use the site to remain and continue as they have in the past for the foreseeable future. New companies and public agencies can also start up new operations on the site pending they agree to the terms and conditions of the Right of Way Permits and do not interfere with existing operations.

One of the largest telecommunication sites found in the National Park Service is situated on the summit of the 6,188 foot peak in the center of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. 

The Environmental Assessment can be viewed on the park’s website at <http://parkplanning.nps.gov> (pick Whiskeytown NRA) or <http://www.nps.gov/whis>. Hard copies of the Environmental Assessment for reading and electronic copies on a CD are available at Park Headquarters. Written comments can be posted on the park’s website (link above) or written letters commenting on the Environmental Assessment can be sent to the following address:

Office of the Superintendent

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

P.O. Box 188

Whiskeytown, CA 96095

Please feel free to contact Jim F. Milestone, Superintendent, at 530-242-3460 if you have specific questions or comments regarding the Environmental Assessment.