The Impact of Recreation Development on Local People

In 1974 Public Law 93-251 authorized the estaablishment of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area (BSFNRRA). Included were approximately 125,000 acres of portions of a five county area in southeastern Kentucky and north central Tennessee consisting of the Big South Fork River, its tributaries, gorge, and adjacent rim area. Original plans called for the gorge area to remain in its undeveloped state and for the rim area to be developed with lodges, campgrounds, overlooks, trails, and picnic areas. The acquisition of land and the design and construction of roads and facilities were among the responsibilities of the United States Army Corps of Engineers, with the National Park Service assuming responsibility for management once the BSFNRRA is officially established.