Another misguided belief is that critical habitat designation is akin to establishment of a wilderness area or wildlife refuge. As such, many believe that the designation closes the area to most human uses. In actuality, a critical habitat designation solely affects federal agencies. It serves to alert these agencies that their responsibilities under section 7 are applicable in the critical habitat area. Designation of critical habitat does not affect land ownership; allow the government to take or manage private property; establish a refuge, reserve, preserve, or other conservation area; or allow government access to private land.