This alternative is not an action contemplated by the 1943 Agreement. Construction of the picnic area would not perform the promise of the United States. It is not acceptable to Swain County as satisfaction of the 1943 Agreement. Cost figures fail to include damages to Swain County .

The NPS is obligated to construct this day-use area when funds are available, as provided for in the General Management Plan (GMP) for the GRSM which was issued in January 1982.

This alternative does not resolve the 1943 agreement and should be dropped from the EIS process as it is already part of the GRSM General Management Plan (GMP). The Laurel Branch Picnic Area should be built, independent of the NSREIS, and combining it with a cultural heritage center should be considered. Either of these construction projects should only be in addition to a $52 million financial settlement with Swain County.

The Laurel Branch Picnic Area is a separate issue. It has been promised separately. It is not an alternative.