Appendix 2

Summary of Comments Received and How They Were Used

A content analysis of the comments was performed to provide an accurate picture of expressed public opinion on the initiative. The comments were incorporated into the final design of the initiative. A 100 percent analysis was carried out on the 1,727 letters, e-mail messages, phone messages, faxes, petitions and form letters received through August 20. Each letter was read and coded by a team trained in content analysis procedures. Each substantive comment was divided into subject categories and captured verbatim in the database.

Individuals made up the largest response category (58.5 percent). Others who commented identified themselves as farmers and ranchers (4.2 percent); environmental organizations (3.9 percent), and elected officials (12.1 percent, including Members of Congress).

Respondents commented on a wide range of subjects. In particular they focused on the following (not in rank order):

• overall initiative design;
• qualifying and selection criteria;
• need for the initiative;
• the role of the federal government;
• Congressional, states', and local role in the initiative;
• benefits to non-designated rivers;
• the role of the "River Navigator";
• effect of the initiative on property rights;
• public involvement in the design of the initiative;
• nomination and selection, including specific river nominations.

Many comments were favorable, citing increased federal coordination, the attention to a range of values in the design of the initiative, the integrated approach to river restoration and revitalization, and the community-driven approach. Many comments were appreciative of the non-regulatory approach of the initiative.

Several comments addressed initiative funding. Some requested that the initiative be funded adequately to ensure success; others stated that the initiative would be too costly regardless. Many respondents wanted to know more about the cost of the initiative and many were concerned that support for existing programs would be withdrawn in order to pay for the initiative. Still others stated that "no new money" was a good catalyst and freed up communities to come up with more creative solutions.

In response, this Federal Register notice clarifies that the American Heritage Rivers initiative is about improved government responsiveness, efficiency, and effectiveness. The programs that are part of the initiative are already authorized by Congress; the initiative will ensure these programs are better coordinated and targeted. With a full understanding of the community's needs and coordinated assistance, the appropriate federal program will more quickly be available to a given community (reducing costly delays and wasteful duplication of efforts).

Some respondents expressed concern that the initiative would create another bureaucratic layer and merely duplicate existing federal, state, and local programs. Among those who stated that the initiative was useful and needed, the principal reasons given were river revitalization and improvement of federal programs by focusing on community-based solutions. This Federal Register notice clarifies that the initiative is needed in order to support locally-led efforts aimed at natural resource and environmental protection, economic revitalization, and historic and cultural preservation in an efficient and effective manner. See additional discussion under "Why this initiative?"

On the subject of qualifying criteria, a number of respondents were concerned that only certain types of rivers would be designated -- those with prior successes, those rivers in relatively pristine condition, or only rivers in the East. A number of respondents stated that highly degraded rivers and efforts at an early stage of development were most deserving of designation. This Federal Register notice clarifies that a diversity of rivers will be selected. See additional discussion under "How will rivers be selected for designation?"

Respondents raised many questions on what new roles, if any, federal agencies would play in their communities. The role of federal agencies in this initiative is to listen to community concerns and needs; work with communities engaged in conservation and development activities; overcome obstacles in the delivery of federal services and responses to identified local priorities; and play a coordination role in helping communities and government agencies learn from each other and compile the best practices, standards, and models for emulation throughout the country. See additional discussion under "What is the role of the federal agencies?"

Respondents raised questions about the involvement of Congress and the states in both the design of the initiative and its implementation. Because Congress authorizes and appropriates funds for the agencies involved in American Heritage Rivers, efforts have been made to inform Members of Congress of the initiative's progress from the beginning. Representatives from the participating agencies invited staff from the authorizations and appropriations committees to two meetings held in Washington, D.C.. In addition, the agencies held briefings for House and Senate staff and met or talked with over 100 Congressional offices.

The states have provided input into the initiative, through the National Governors Association and through individual agencies. Individual elected officials, as well as the National Conference of Mayors, commented as well. This Federal Register notice clarifies that state and local support will be critical to successful designation and that the initiative will not conflict with matters of state, tribal and local government jurisdiction.

Many respondents from all parts of the country called for more involvement by the states in implementing such an initiative, so that the states' priorities are not overlooked. This Federal Register notice clarifies that state, tribal, and local governments all play critical roles in implementing this initiative.

See additional discussion on the role of states in implementing the initiative under "What is the role of the states and local government?" and "What is the Role of the Federal Agencies?"

Respondents were curious about what benefits will go to non-designated rivers. The initiative provides benefits to all people working to revitalize their rivers. See additional discussion under "Benefits to Applicants Who Submit Complete Nomination Packets" and "Improved Services Available to All Communities."

Some respondents stated that the River Navigator would be of great help to the community; others focused on the possibility that this individual would hold too much power, would add a layer of bureaucracy, and/or would not represent the community's wishes. These issues have been clarified in this Federal Register notice. The River Navigator will not be given any new authority over local zoning or local land use decisions. When American Heritage Rivers are selected, members of the relevant communities will have the opportunity to help shape the specific duties of their River Navigator and have a role in choosing one Navigator from several candidates. Although the Administration believes that River Navigators will be extremely helpful, no community will be required to accept a River Navigator. See additional discussion under "Benefits of Designation," subsection "River Navigator."

Many wrote in with concerns about private property rights. While existing laws and programs will continue to apply, the American Heritage Rivers initiative, in and of itself, will have no effect on private property rights. However, several new directives concerning protection of property rights were included in the Federal Register notice. See additional discussion under "What is the Role of the Federal Agencies?" and "Protection for Private Property and Other Rights."

Many respondents questioned how rivers would be nominated. The term "river community" was confusing to many people. They sought clarification on which groups composed a "river community" and the extent of community support needed for a nomination. Of particular concern was that a group of people who lived outside the "river community" could successfully nominate a river without the support of the people who relied on the river for their livelihood and/or recreation.

Only those people who live or work in the proposed area may nominate their river. However, those representing all interests should be involved in the process. See discussion under "Summary of American Heritage Rivers Initiative" and "How do communities nominate a river and who may apply?"

Respondents showed considerable interest in particular rivers being designated. As of September 12, 1997, no nominations have been solicited or accepted and no rivers have been selected. Nomination packets are now available. The nomination period will be open from September 11 to December 10. The President will announce the selected rivers in early 1998. See more detailed discussion under "How do communities nominate a river and who may apply?" and "How will rivers be selected?"

Respondents sought information on when and how the public has played a role in designing the initiative. Extensive public involvement has been a cornerstone of the initiative from the beginning. See discussion under "How the Initiative was developed."

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