Photo from Logging Operation in Sierra NF
HQ wanted to give the riders and fans of Stonyford a
pre-Christmas update on the proposed Mill Fire Salvage Timber Project. First, thanks to all of you who sent in
letters. I heard from several of you
that it was the 1st time you had ever written a comment letter -
good on you for being part of the solution.
HQ was impressed with the number of letters submitted as well as the
content. I have heard the FS was impressed
as well.
Based on discussions with agency staff last week, I
believe the FS will utilize many of our comments in a revision of project and
craft it to minimize impacts to system trails and to restore those trail
segments back to trails after the project.
Also, HQ understands they will schedule the project so as to not impact
the Fall enduros (i.e. Fall enduros will
happen in 2013 and beyond) and only work during the week when ridership is low.
HQ understands the OHV Program Manager and the Forest
Recreation Officer are now official team members of the project. Giving recreation and trails a seat at the planning
table is a good thing!
Logging on federal lands (including post-fire salvage
operations) is a very complex issue in the 21st Century. Trails, sensitive and threatened species, storm
water runoff, forest resource goals, congressional mandates, court rulings, recreation,
and potential litigation are all part of the puzzle that must be pieced
together by agency staff in preparation for the timber sale. Salvage timber sales are even more
complicated by time sensitivity due to insect predation on the dead and dying
timber if the agency (and taxpayer) expects to sell any of the logs to help pay
for the project (and create some local jobs in the process too).
HQ would like to encourage you to read a rather long
article on various concepts related to post-fire salvage operations on federal
lands – it is a good read.
HQ is optimistic that as we head into the Christmas and
New Year Holiday season that OHVers have averted being given a lump of coal by
the Mendocino NF’s original proposal and instead have the promise of being able
to once again enjoy OHV recreation there including permitted events for many
seasons to come.
Merry Christmas,
The Recreation HQ
Posts
Thank you, General Don, and all of us who participated in campaigning to make high priority on the list if items in this project to avert trail damage from the logging. Yes! Having two members of the team with our interests at heart is a huge step in the right direction of protecting our beloved trails. Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteSuzanne A. of the Oakland Motorcycle Club