Post by pistonschick on Dec 3, 2009 17:32:58 GMT -8
I am not actively engaged with the Gifford Pinchot motorized effort (due to lack of time to effectively invest). I am merely a supporting member (not an active member) of the Gifford Pinchot Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance, so I get copied on all of the e-mail communications. Following is the latest direct message from Tom Savage, GPNF Landscape Architect:
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Subject: Re: NOVA funds loss impact
I would encourage all the different motorized groups to present a united image to the Gifford Pinchot NF Rangers. Gary Johnson has networked with several local groups, encouraging them to work with their local District Ranger on trail issues. I don't really know how closely his efforts are aligned with the WOHVA. I would urge everyone to be united and work together.
The Local Groups include the South West Off Road Riders (Dale Cooper and friends), Jones Creek Trail Riders Association (Joe, Eric), Cougar Area Trail Seekers (quad club) and a new group in Randle (sorry, don't have the name). All are enthusiastic people, with a real interest in the Forest trails.
The different groups seem to have different goals. The quad riders would generally like to see a system of gravel roads open to them. The dirt bike riders are more interested in trails. Some people in the Forest Service have suggested opening some roads and closing a like number of trail miles. This idea divides the users groups. Unlicensed riders on the roads and lawsuits are the basic concern for Forest Rangers.
Generally the ORV groups have hit a brick wall when asking for consideration of their goals. While the Forest Management is willing to talk, they are generally not receptive to change. Many other issues, such as getting Recovery Act Projects going, are commanding their attention. The Forest will not make the deadline of completing the new Travel Management Plan this year. Sometime in the spring is more likely. The Plan is basically the status quo, what is open, stays open and what is closed, is closed. This has worked both for and against motorized users. Some trails have been quietly changed to non-motorized, while trails in the Dark Divide have remained open, much to the dismay of anti-motorized groups. The Travel Plan has not had public input and is not subject to appeal. The anti-motorized groups will likely not accept this.
The next year or two will likely be a pivotal time for motorized recreation on the Forest. Getting the RCO grant program back is critical for this Forest, as it is for all of the Forests in the State. The National Forests are all finishing their Travel Plans. Travel Planning on the Forests will continue but the direction could be decided in the near future.
Tom Savage
Landscape Architect
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
360-891-5176
* * * * *
Subject: Re: NOVA funds loss impact
I would encourage all the different motorized groups to present a united image to the Gifford Pinchot NF Rangers. Gary Johnson has networked with several local groups, encouraging them to work with their local District Ranger on trail issues. I don't really know how closely his efforts are aligned with the WOHVA. I would urge everyone to be united and work together.
The Local Groups include the South West Off Road Riders (Dale Cooper and friends), Jones Creek Trail Riders Association (Joe, Eric), Cougar Area Trail Seekers (quad club) and a new group in Randle (sorry, don't have the name). All are enthusiastic people, with a real interest in the Forest trails.
The different groups seem to have different goals. The quad riders would generally like to see a system of gravel roads open to them. The dirt bike riders are more interested in trails. Some people in the Forest Service have suggested opening some roads and closing a like number of trail miles. This idea divides the users groups. Unlicensed riders on the roads and lawsuits are the basic concern for Forest Rangers.
Generally the ORV groups have hit a brick wall when asking for consideration of their goals. While the Forest Management is willing to talk, they are generally not receptive to change. Many other issues, such as getting Recovery Act Projects going, are commanding their attention. The Forest will not make the deadline of completing the new Travel Management Plan this year. Sometime in the spring is more likely. The Plan is basically the status quo, what is open, stays open and what is closed, is closed. This has worked both for and against motorized users. Some trails have been quietly changed to non-motorized, while trails in the Dark Divide have remained open, much to the dismay of anti-motorized groups. The Travel Plan has not had public input and is not subject to appeal. The anti-motorized groups will likely not accept this.
The next year or two will likely be a pivotal time for motorized recreation on the Forest. Getting the RCO grant program back is critical for this Forest, as it is for all of the Forests in the State. The National Forests are all finishing their Travel Plans. Travel Planning on the Forests will continue but the direction could be decided in the near future.
Tom Savage
Landscape Architect
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
360-891-5176