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What is a Master Plan?

A master plan is the strategic land use management document that guides the comprehensive management and development of recreation, natural and cultural resources at Corps facilities.  It does not address water management operations, associated prime facilities (dam, spillway etc.), or shoreline management; those operations are outlined in separate documents. After a master plan is revised, the operational management plan and shoreline management plan would both be revised to be consistent with the goals identified in the master plan.

Why update the Master Plan?

Some plans may have become outdated because of changes in Corps regulations and community needs. A master plan revision will classify the gov­ernment lands around the lake based on environmental and socio­economic considerations, public input, and an evaluation of past, present, and forecasted trends. Updates are stewardship-driven and seek to balance recreational development and use with the conservation of natural and cultural resources.

Why should this matter to me?

The master plans are intended to be guided by public interests consistent with the authorized purpose of the project. Public input will also help to shape how the projects are managed and resourced.  Therefore, as a member of the public, whether a local business, recreational user, local interest group member, or project partner, you are encouraged to let us know your interests in the project so that we can update the master plan to support your needs and interests

What can I do with a master plan?

All operations and maintenance grants, general plans, agreements, etc. necessary to carry out land use, development and other measures proposed in project authorization documents, project design memoranda are reflected in the project NEPA documents.  A master plan provides a set of recommended actions (e.g. trail extension, development of equestrian area, leasing, concessions, etc.).   In essence, a master plan provides pre-approval for future actions under the assumption that they have already been analyzed and found to be appropriate for federal land.