§410fff–9 Study of Lands Within and Adjacent to Curecanti National Recreation Area

Summary

The Secretary, through the Director of the National Park Service, must carry out a study of land protection and open space in and next to the Curecanti National Recreation Area no later than 3 years after October 21, 1999. The study must look at the natural, cultural, recreational, and scenic value of those lands (including open views, wildlife habitat, and other public benefits), identify practical ways to protect the land and its character, recommend economically feasible tools to do that, and estimate the costs of the recommended approaches. The Secretary must send a report with the study’s findings and recommendations to Congress not later than 3 years from October 21, 1999. Before the study is finished, the Secretary may acquire certain private lands shown on the map titled “Proposed Additions to the Curecanti National Recreation Area,” dated 01/25/99, totaling approximately 1,065 acres and called the “Hall and Fitti properties.” Those lands may be obtained by donation, purchase with donated or appropriated funds, or exchange, but only with the owner’s consent. After acquisition, the Secretary must add the land to the recreation area boundary and manage it under applicable laws and rules.