A member of a Westfield Selectboard asked if there was a specific buffer requirement in which there was Wild and Scenic protection.

If the Study Committee pursues designation, then they will establish boundaries for the designated area.  There is not a set rule for the size of the border along the designated river. The flexible nature of the boundary is intended to enable the Study Committee to capture most or all of the Outstandingly Remarkable Values (ORVs) within the boundary by varying its width as need be.  Having a boundary will not mean that the area is then controlled by the federal government.  Regulations which currently govern land use will still be in effect.  Please see the previous post entitled “Does Wild and Scenic Designation create a 1/4 mile protected corridor along the river?” for more information.