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designations, update previous studies, or complete reconnaissance surveys of individual areas requiring a total expenditure of less than $25,000.

(6) Study of rivers or trails not affected.—This section does not apply to or affect or alter the study of—

(A) any river segment for potential addition to the national wild and scenic rivers system; or

(B) any trail for potential addition to the national trails system.

(c) Study of Areas for Potential Inclusion.—

(1) Study to be completed within 3 years.—The Secretary shall complete the study for each area for potential inclusion in the System within 3 complete fiscal years following the date on which funds are first made available for that purpose.

(2) Opportunity for public involvement required.—Each study under this section shall be prepared with appropriate opportunity for public involvement, including at least one public meeting in the vicinity of the area under study, and after reasonable efforts to notify potentially affected landowners and State and local governments.

(3) Considerations.—In conducting the study, the Secretary shall consider whether the area under study—

(A) possesses nationally significant natural or cultural resources and represents one of the most important examples of a particular resource type in the country; and

(B) is a suitable and feasible addition to the System.

(4) Scope of study.—Each study—

(A) with regard to the area being studied, shall consider—

(i) the rarity and integrity of the resources;

(ii) the threats to those resources;

(iii) whether similar resources are already protected in the System or in other public or private ownership;

(iv) the public use potential;

(v) the interpretive and educational potential;

(vi) costs associated with acquisition, development, and operation;

(vii) the socioeconomic impacts of any designation;

(viii) the level of local and general public support; and

(ix) whether the area is of appropriate configuration to ensure long-term resource protection and visitor use;

(B) shall consider whether direct Service management or alternative protection by other public agencies or the private sector is appropriate for the area;

(C) shall identify what alternative or combination of alternatives would in the professional judgment of the Director be most effective and efficient in protecting significant resources and providing for public enjoyment; and

(D) may include any other information that the Secretary considers to be relevant.

(5) Compliance with national environmental policy act of 1969.—Each study shall be completed in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).

(6) Recommendation of preferred management option.—The letter transmitting each completed study to Congress shall