Update the data base, with emphasis on identifying possible 

 reach additions and reviewing existing data. This could be 

 accomplished by inviting recreation managers and river users 

 to attend regional meetings around the state. An added benefit 

 would be getting these groups together to discuss river 

 recreation and management in the region. Another objective 

 would be to agree on value class assignments for reaches 

 that are currently unclassified. A working paper outlining 

 the updating and revision process should be developed and 

 then approved by the Cooperating Resource Experts. 



Prepare 1:500,000 maps of the river reaches so study results 

 could be viewed easily. The existing set of 100 maps make 

 presentation nearly impossible. If BPA is not planning his 

 capability in the next few months, this should be done on 

 contract. 



Assess the need for additional inventory criteria to be 

 included, and develop a list of possible additions. Many river 

 characteristics such as flow levels, water quality, and use 

 patterns contribute to recreational value but were not 

 inventoried but would complement existing data well. This 

 should be done before manager and user updates of the data. 



Make DFWP and federal recreation managers more familiar with 

 the data base so they can use it easily. If the data base is 

 not institutionalized now, its value may never be realized. 

 Recreation managers in each DFWP region should be trained 

 in data base use. 



Develop a method to update the data base every three years. 

 Recreational use patterns of rivers have changed drastically 

 over the past two decades. Rivers once considered not boatable 

 are being floated regularly, and the 1985 Montana Stream 

 Access Bill may change use patterns on a wide variety of 

 rivers and streams. The data base should be updated once 

 every three years to reflect changes in use patterns, new 

 data, and evolving values. 



