Session 3 of 3 of RMS' Wild and Scenic River Training Series

Session Description

Rivers determined to be eligible are managed as if they were designated, in an effort to protect the values for which eligibility has been determined. In this session, we will hear from river managers who manage rivers that are listed, not protected, and might be, one day. 

Learning Objectives

Participants will learn how we manage rivers that are identified as eligible for federally protected status in the Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Participants will understand the subtle challenges river managers encounter when managing a river that has been identified as ‘eligible’ and has not achieved permanent, legislated protection. Panelists will share case examples of processes they follow, actions they have taken and, importantly, relationships with other jurisdictions and private landowners.

Speakers

David Cernicek - Wild and Scenic River Manager, Bridger-Teton National Forest David works as the Wild & Scenic Rivers Coordinator for the Bridger-Teton National Forest overseeing the 315 miles of the 415 streams that make up the Snake River Headwaters Wild & Scenic Designation. He is a member of the Interagency Wild & Scenic Rivers Coordinating Council (IWSRCC), RMS member since 1997.

Ryan Turner - Outdoor Recreation Planner Ryan serves as an Outdoor Recreation Planner with the Bureau of Land Management’s Cottonwood Field Office in Idaho. He manages recreation along the Lower Salmon River, an area eligible for inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Balancing public access with resource protection, Ryan oversees Special Recreation Permits, coordinates with outfitters, and ensures compliance with operational standards. Additionally, he actively contributes to long-term planning and NEPA processes that guide public land stewardship. Ryan’s hands-on experience and policy expertise provide valuable insights into managing eligible Wild and Scenic Rivers and fostering partnerships to protect these waterways for future generations.

Registration

This series is open to RMS members and non-members. Registration is $15 per session, or free for RMS members. RMS membership is $60 annually at the Individual level. Learn more about the features and benefits of membership and join today on our Membership page or from within the registration form. Register for one, two or three sessions in the form below:

Register

About RMS' 2026 Wild and Scenic River Training Series

Sessions in this series include:

• April 29: Wild and Scenic Rivers 101 (90 mins.)
• May 6: Section 7 Determinations (60 mins.)
• May 20: Managing Eligible Rivers (60 mins.)

The target audience includes river managers, agency staff, and partners interested in exploring the practical applications of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Instructors will facilitate sessions using Zoom and request that participants come ready with their cameras on and microphones enabled, ready to connect and learn together. Participation in all sessions is requested but not required.

Materials are aligned with the vision of the Interagency Wild & Scenic Rivers Coordinating Council and the Technical Core Competencies for River Management Specialists and Non-Specialists. You can find more WSR training resources on RMS' Wild and Scenic River Resources page or at rivers.gov.