Forest Service Planning Rule - Comments Due Feb. 16, 2010

The Recreation HQ has been getting a lot of emails with questions regarding how to comment on the new Forest Service Planning Rule process. As some of you know, the comment period ends February 16, 2010. Planning Rules guide the creation, revision,
and/or amending of Forest Plans under the National Forest Management Act.
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FS Announcement of Planning Rule Process
http://fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5110263.pdf

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Before The General answers that question, it is important for you to understand the history of this rather complex issue.

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In March of 2007, a northern California U.S. District Court enjoined the Forest Service from implementing the 2005 Planning Rule. This invalidated the 2005 Planning Rule that was developed to replace the 2000 Planning Rule that was part of the unholy triad of the Clinton/Dombeck/Gore-era “Rules.” The Planning Rule, the Transportation Rule, and the Roadless Rule.
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Since that court decision, Forests are operating under old plans developed under the 2000 Planning Rule or on older planning rules such as the 1982 Planning Rule. The Forest planning process is stalled right now until this new planning rule is put into effect.

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The BRC main office and legal department are in the process of analyzing the new planning rule and will be submitting official comments. In addition, BRC is expected to issue an alert next week with an outline of issues/potential comments that riders may want to use as they create their own comments.
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The General believes the primary goal of the Clinton/Gore Rule Triad was to eliminate the timber industry. Tragically in many parts of the West that strategic goal has been accomplished.
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Now the great danger for OHV interests is that with the Timber Wars being over, we are now in the “OHV Wars” era with a target painted squarely on the backs of our helmets or riding jackets. *
Just how we respond as a community will determine the outcome. The Recreation HQ believes we can win if we man or woman-up and fight back with firm resolve.

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If you have not joined the BRC or your local OHV organization – do it now!
Join BRC online at: https://www.sharetrails.org/secure/join_or_contribute/
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Also, ck out BRC’s new online magazine: http://www.sharetrails.org/magazine/

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Thanks for your service and support!