§544b Establishment of Scenic Area

Summary

Creates the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and sets its borders on an official map called "Boundary Map, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area" (NSA–001, sheets 1–2, dated September 1986). The map copies are kept for public viewing at the Commission and the Forest Service. The scenic area does not include about 29 acres owned by the Port of Camas‑Washougal (about 19 acres bought under the Second Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1984, Public Law 98–396, plus about 10 adjacent acres). Names four Special Management Areas inside the scenic area: Gates of the Columbia River Gorge, Wind Mountain, Burdoin Mountain, and Rowena. Their limits are shown on map SMA–002 (sheets 1–17, September 1986) and include all islands. Those boundaries were changed on a map dated September 20, 2000. The Secretary, after consulting the Commission and giving at least 60 days’ public notice in the Federal Register and notifying certain congressional committees, may make small boundary tweaks and must publish notice of final action. Sets up the Dodson/Warrendale Special Purchase Unit (map SPU–003, sheet 1, September 1986). Lists the designated Urban Areas (cities and towns named in Oregon and Washington) shown on map UA–004 (sheets 1–11, September 1986). County requests can trigger minor urban-boundary changes, but the Commission must approve by a two‑thirds vote that includes a majority of members appointed from each State. Boundary changes are allowed only if they meet four tests: there is a real long-term need for growth or economic reasons consistent with the management plan; the change follows the standards in section 544d and the purposes of sections 544–544p; it makes land use more efficient in and around the city; and it does not significantly cut agricultural land, forest land, or open space.