format will likely be used as the mechanism for displaying this information. 

 The matrix will identify the total number of resource values associated with 

 each river segment and system and will indicate significance ratings. 

 Ultimately, this information will be incorporated into a computerized data 

 management system. The specific format of this system is to be determined. 

 For purposes of information synthesis, river segments will likely be defined 

 using the following guidelines: 



1. Where a river possesses a combination of overlapping values, the 

 outer boundaries of the overlapping values determines the boundary of 

 the segment. 



2. A tributary stream which flows into, and is connected to, a larger 

 river area generally is included in the larger river segment 

 description if the tributary stream: a) possesses natural, cultural, 

 or recreational values consistent with those of the main river area, 

 and b) significantly enhances the overall value of the larger river 

 segment's resources. The specific mechanism for entering data on 

 tributary streams is to be determined. 



3. A tributary stream with natural, cultural, or recreational values 

 greater than those of a connecting main river area is listed 

 separately. 



4. Larger connecting rivers may be listed as tributaries to a river 

 system in certain unique situations, e.g., where: a) the rivers are 

 free flowing and within an undeveloped watershed, and b) the rivers 

 in the watershed exhibit a high degree of hydrological and ecological 

 interdependence . 



Step 7 : Composite Resource Value Evaluation (Optional) 



Usiag information obtained through this process, it is possible to conduct a 

 composite resource value evaluation. The objective would be to determine 

 overall resource significance of segments and systems and to achieve a sense 

 of agreement between interests as to these findings. This step is optional 

 following completion of the Rivers Study and will not be funded by BPA as part 

 of the current effort. 



Composite value findings can give an indication of multiple public values and 

 can thus guide the Council, the states, the Tribes, and Federal agencies in 

 setting priorities. If such an effort is undertaken, it should be structured 

 so as to not diminish the individual category findings derived in Step 4 as 

 they relate to programs directed at specific resource categories. 



Step 8 : Documentation and Presentation 



The study's findings will be documented and graphic presentations of data 

 prepared. Detailed state by state reports and a summary regionwide report 

 will be prepared. A special effort will be made to document the significance 

 of reaches and systems found to possess high and/or unique resource values, as 

 well as those reaches reflecting the priorities of the Regional Act. 

 Statutory recognition (Wild and Scenic Rivers, National Parks, inclusion in 

 Wilderness Areas, etc.) will be included. The final report prepared by 

 regional staff with state. Tribal, and agency assistance will include 

 identification of potential protected areas, narrative descriptions, tabular 

 information, and maps which depict and document the comparative significance 

 of resources for each value category. 



