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Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
I just got off the phone with Nick Haris, Western Representative for the American Motorcyclists Association (AMA). Nick also serves on BRC's Board of Directors. Nick asked BRC to forward the news about an important rally planned for Tuesday, February 13, 2007 on the Capitol Steps in Salem, Oregon (3:00 to 5:00 p.m.).
This important rally has been organized to show opposition to legislation that would prohibit children under the age of 12 from riding Class I (ATV;s) and Class III (motorcycles)
The bill is known as "Senate Bill 49" or "SB 49" and was introduced into the 2007 Regular Session by Sen. Alan C. Bates (D-District 3) and Sen. Richard Devlin (D-District 19).
SB 49 has two components. One is to prohibit the operation of ATV's to children under the age of 12 and would limit the size of ATVs ridden by children ages 12 to 15 years to 90cc's. The other requires the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department to produce informational materials regarding state laws, safety requirements and training programs and to distribute them to powersports dealerships. . Retailers would be required to distribute the materials to ATV purchasers at the time of sale. ATV retailers would also be prohibited from selling vehicles according to age limits and engine displacement limitations.
Nick wants us to get the word about the rally to all BRC members. Please plan to attend.
Nick says:
"Please bring posters and signs showing you support this important family recreation. No additional quads or bikes will be allowed due to the permit (but a truck/trailer loaded with them parked on the street looks great). If your group has any safety information to share with the public please bring that as well. You will need plenty of quarters to feed the meters. Please encourage all that attend to be respectful.....best foot forward.... "
If you have any questions about the Rally you can call Linda at 503-394-2180.
If you can't make it to the Rally on Tuesday, please contact your legislator immediately. You can easily locate your Oregon State legislator via the web at: http://www.leg.state.or.us/ (click "find your legislator" on the left)
Here is some information that may help you when you contact your representatives:
Be polite.
Be sure to tell them you calling to express your strong oposition to SB 49.
Mention that Off-Highway Vehicle use is a family activity. Tell your legislator that banning the use of ATV's and motorcycles by children under age 12 and severely restricting riders under age 15 by limiting them to those vehicles under 90cc's is not acceptable.
Explain that this bill simply penalizes responsible citizens for the actions of a few irresponsible riders.
Tell you legislator rider education, parental responsibility and enforcement of existing law is the key to preventing accidents, not penalizing responsible families.
Also, be sure to mention that the backers of this bill did not consult with industry, riders or the business community and have instead chosen to move ahead with this legislation regardless of the actual effect it will have on the states economy or families.
Ask your legislator to oppose this bill.
Thank you in advance for your involvement.
As always, if you have any questions or comments please call.
Brian Hawthorne
Public Lands Director
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention South Dakota Recreationists!
The Fort Pierre National Grassland is formulating new travel plans that will limit ALL vehicle use to designated roads, trails and areas. As a first step in the planning process, the Forest Service (FS) will be hosting two open-house style meetings during the month of February.
As you know, the FS published a new rule requiring the agency to formally designate a system of roads, trails and areas where motorized vehicle use would be allowed. Forest Service regulations and other laws require the agency to conduct a planning process in collaboration with the public to help design the designated system.
Your comments will be used to help the FS to produce an Environmental Assessment (EA) to analyze and disclose likely effects of the proposed action and any alternatives. In order to have your comments considered in the discussion of the transportation system on the Fort Pierre National Grassland you must submit them no later than March 5, 2007. A second opportunity to comment will be available once the EA is released for comments scheduled for later this year.
Submit written comments to Travel Management, Fort Pierre National Grassland, 1020 North Deadwood Street, Fort Pierre, SD 57532. Email comments to comments-rocky-mountain-nebraska-fort-pierre@fs.fed.uswith FPNG Travel Management in the subject line. Remember to include your name and contact information.
Schedule for the Open Houses:
Wednesday, February 14, 2007 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Fort Pierre National Grassland Office
1020 North Deadwood Street
Fort Pierre, SD
Thursday, February 15, 2007 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Fort Pierre National Grassland Office
1020 North Deadwood Street
Fort Pierre, SD
PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE ON THE FORT PIERRE NATIONAL GRASSLAND GET INVOLVED NOW!
Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention Western Wyoming and Eastern Idaho recreationists!
I don't normally write the Action Alerts, but as part of my job I do try to keep track of all the latest stuff going on with the travel management planning in all the National Forests. Well this morning I got an email from David Wilkinson, Travel Planner on the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and I thought I needed to pass along this information. It seems that they are hosting a public discussion panel forum later this month entitled: PERSPECTIVES ON MOTORIZED RECREATION AND WILDLIFE -- Trends, Opportunities, and Effects. BRC's own Public Lands Director, Brian Hawthorne is going to be one of the speakers.
I have pastes the information from Dave's email along with driving directions which he attached. If you need additional information, contact David Wilkinson at the Jackson Ranger District at (307) 739-5544.
ANYONE WHO RECREATES IN THE BRIDGER-TETON NATIONAL FOREST SHOULD TRY TO ATTEND!
Thanks for your continued support,
Ric Foster
Public Lands Assistant
BlueRibbon Coalition
_________________________________________________________________
Travel Plan Participant:
This is an official invitation to attend a public panel discussion forum entitled: PERSPECTIVES ON MOTORIZED RECREATION AND WILDLIFE--TRENDS, OPPORTUNITIES, AND EFFECTS 6:30 pm on Wednesday, February 21st 2007 at the Teton Science School's Jackson campus in Jackson, Wyoming. The following attachments detail the 7 notable speaker panelists, the event, and directions on the event location. We very much hope you can attend this informative event. Please email or call if you have any questions regarding this event.
David Wilkinson
Travel Plan/GIS Support
Bridger-Teton National Forest
Jackson Ranger District
PO Box 1689
Jackson, WY 83001
(307) 739-5544
_________________________________________________________________
PERSPECTIVES ON MOTORIZED RECREATION AND WILDLIFE
Trends, Opportunities, and Effects
The Bridger-Teton National Forest is hosting a Public Panel Discussion of Current Science and Motorized Recreation on Wednesday, February 21st 2007 from 6:30 to 9:30 pm in the Dining Lodge Room of the Teton Science School's Jackson Campus. This event will have presentations by seven notable speakers: Michael Wisdom-Research Wildlife Biologist (Perspective: current research of motorized use and wildlife effects at the Starkey Experimental Forest in Oregon). Brian Hawthorne-Blue Ribbon Coalition Public Lands Director (Perspective: the national view on OHV use, trends, and the organization's position on balancing motorized use with wildlife). Dr. Chuck Schwartz-(USGS) Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team Leader (Perspective: impacts of roads, trails, homes, developments on grizzly bear survival in the GYE). Brad Hill-Program Manager for Wyoming State Trails (Perspective: State view regarding goals and attributes of a designated motorized system and OHV use with wildlife and other interests). Steve Kilpatrick-Habitat Biologist for Wyoming Game & Fish Department (Perspective: relationship, effects, and opportunities between OHV use and hunting). Eric Grove-Local Jackson Hole OHV Rental Business owner and recreationist (Perspective: OHV trends regarding use/sales locally and what he is hearing from customers). Franz Camenzind-Executive Director of the Jackson Hole Alliance (Perspective: relationship and trends between local OHV use and non-motorized/quiet recreation). The public is invited to attend this free event that will include time for questions from the audience and an opportunity to Meet and Greet the Panelists, following the panel forum. This event is part of the Travel Plan Revision process and the development of a Designated Motorized Road and Trail system for the North Zone of the Bridger-Teton National Forest.
For additional information call David Wilkinson-BTNF Travel Plan Coordinator at 739-5544.
_________________________________________________________________
Driving Directions to the Jackson Campus
From the north:
Follow HWY 89/191 south to the Jackson Town Square. Turn right at the square onto Broadway. Continue 1.5 miles on Broadway to the US 89/191 and HWY 22 intersection (Albertsons & Jackson State Bank on your left). Turn right onto HWY 22. Head west on HWY 22 for approx. 1.7 miles. Watch for the Teton Science Schools sign on the right at Coyote Canyon Road. Turn right onto Coyote Canyon Road. Follow Coyote Canyon Road .6 miles to the Jackson Campus.
From the south:
Follow HWY 89/191 north to the US 89/191 and HWY 22 intersection (Albertsons on your right side). Turn left at the light onto HWY 22. Proceed on HWY 22 for approx. 1.7 miles. Watch for the Teton Science Schools sign on the right at Coyote Canyon Road. Turn right on Coyote Canyon Road and follow it .6 miles to the Jackson Campus.
From the west:
Follow HWY 22 (from Teton Pass) east to the town of Wilson. Stay on HWY22. You will reach the HWY 390 junction after approx. 1.5 miles. Continue on HWY 22. Travel approx. 2.4 miles past the HWY 390 junction. Watch for the Teton Science Schools sign on the left at Coyote Canyon Road. Turn left onto Coyote Canyon Road and follow it .6 miles to the Jackson Campus.
Approximate Distances to the Jackson Campus
From the North
Moran Junction 34.6 Miles
Moose Junction 14.7 Miles
Airport 12.8 Miles
From the South
Hoback Junction 14.3 Miles
From the West
Wilson (Post Office) 3.5 Miles
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Southeast Idaho BLM Draft Land Use Plans Available for Public Review and Comment, Public Information Meetings Set for February
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has released a draft Resource Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement (RMP/EIS) for approximately 621,500 acres in southeast Idaho for public review and comment. The plans affect lands managed by the BLM's Pocatello Field Office.
An RMP can be compared to a county master plan where management direction and objectives are defined for specific resources and areas. They address issues including livestock grazing, recreation, wildlife habitat, off-highway vehicle use, camping and even energy and mineral development. The document contains a preferred alternative as well as a range of other management alternatives. Each draft plan includes a draft EIS which analyzes the environmental effects of each planning alternative.
The DRMP/DEIS presents a total of four alternatives which takes into consideration comments received by other governmental agencies, public organizations, state, tribal entities, and interested individuals. Public collaboration through the scoping process led to shaping of issues covering recreation, wildlife, minerals, cultural resources, grazing, land tenure, designation of areas of critical environmental concern (ACEC), access to public lands, and other topics. The DRMP/DEIS analyzes alternatives to resolve management issues, determines management objectives and actions, and establishes monitoring methods to facilitate multiple use and sustained yield management for the entire planning area.
Your comments and suggestions are critical at this stage in the new RMP development. The BLM will accept public comments until April 4, 2007. BLM will need to know what part of the preferred alternative you support and what part you oppose. Also, BLM needs to know what parts of the other alternatives should be included in the final plan, and which parts of the other alternatives should NOT be in the final plan. The documents are available at http://www.id.blm.gov/planning/pocrmp/index.htm.
Comments may be submitted in writing to the Pocatello Field Office, Attn: Project Manager, 4350 Cliffs Drive, Pocatello, ID 83204. You may also comment via email at ID_Pocatello_RMP@blm.govor on comment forms that will be provided at each of the Public Open Houses.
Open Houses will be held at four locations during February 2007. The purpose of these Open Houses is to answer questions regarding the Draft Pocatello Resource Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement and assist the public in understanding the alternatives. Following are the dates, locations and times:
Monday, February 12, 2007 4-7 P.M.
Caribou County BLM Interagency Fire Station
655 East 2 South,
Soda Springs, ID 83276
Tuesday, February 13, 2007 4-7 P.M.
Malad Senior Center
26 North Main Street
Malad City, ID 83251
Wednesday, February 14, 2007 4-7 P.M.
City Council Chambers, Pocatello City Hall
911 North Seventh Avenue
Pocatello, ID 83201
Thursday, February 15, 2007 4-7 P.M.
Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Tribal Business Center
Pima Drive
Fort Hall, ID 83203
Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
STANISLAUS NATIONAL FOREST TO RELEASE A "DRAFT" TRAVEL PLAN FOR CALAVERAS, MI-WOK AND GROVELAND RANGER DISTRICT AT PUBLIC MEETINGS IN FEB. AND MARCH
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention California Recreationists!
The Stanislaus National Forest will host a series of community meetings during the months of February and March. These meetings relate to Step 3 of the Forest's Route Designation process, the next step in the process and will provide the public additional opportunity for continued discussion on the designation of the forest's Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreational Trails system.
As you know, the FS published a new rule requiring the agency to formally designate a system of roads, trails and areas where motorized vehicle use would be allowed. Forest Service regulations and other laws require the agency to conduct a planning process in collaboration with the public to help design the designated system.
The continued discussion relates to the Forest transportation and recreational trails system under consideration on the Calaveras, Mi-Wok, and Groveland Ranger Districts. The Forest will be bringing forward a "Discussion Proposal" for the roads transportation system and travel off of designated roads for parking and camping. The discussion will focus on defining any changes to the Discussion Proposal for a roads system on the Forest, and discussing ways to designate access off of designated roads for dispersed camping and parking. OHV enthusiasts need to attend in order to ensure the anti-access groups do not dominate this process as it moves forward.
Officials emphasize that the Discussion Proposal is not a proposed action. Continued discussion and dialogue with the public will help managers define and formulate a proposed action in accordance with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process.
Each of the three community meetings will be focused on a specific Ranger District, and provide follow-up to three preliminary discussion meetings held last December. Specific topics for the next meetings include:
* Developing a proposed action for any needed changes to the main road transportation system. Some examples could include changing the maintenance levels of some roads to allow non-street legal vehicles to travel on them; restoring of non-system roads (user created roads not needed for the Forest transportation system); and reassigning some roads into the Forest trails system.
* Developing a proposed action to designate parking and access to dispersed camping areas.
Forest officials, specialists, and staff will be on hand at each meeting to answer questions related to the route designation process. Meetings are scheduled in February as follows:
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Groveland Ranger District Discussion Proposal
Greeley Hill Community Club House
Fiske Road
Greeley Hill, CA
5:00-6:00 p.m. View the maps
6:00-8:30 p.m. Overview of process, hear the Discussion Proposal, and refine the Discussion Proposal
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Calaveras Ranger District Discussion Proposal
Independence Hall
1445 Blagen Road
White Pines, CA
5:00-6:00 p.m. View the maps
6:00-8:30 p.m. Overview of process, hear the Discussion Proposal, and refine the Discussion Proposal
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Mi-Wok Ranger District Discussion Proposal
Sonora Oaks Best Western Hotel Oak Glenn Room
19551 Hess Road
Sonora, CA
(209) 533-4400
5:00-6:00 p.m. View the maps
6:00-8:30 p.m. Overview of process, hear the Discussion Proposal, and refine the Discussion Proposal
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Additional "Open House"
Supervisor's Office Stanislaus Room
19777 Greenley Road
Sonora, CA
3:00-6:00 p.m. View the maps, share ideas, and discuss.
Ways to Participate in advance of the discussions include:
* View the website map products available after the meetings http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus
* Get a CD version of the map products
* Make an appointment with district recreation staff
* Request a scheduled group presentation from the Forest Service
For more information contact Sue Warren at (209) 532-3671 ext 321 or by email to swarren@fs.fed.usAdditional information is also available on their website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/projects/ohv/index.shtml
PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE IN THE STANISLAUS NATIONAL FOREST GET INVOLVED NOW!
As always, if you have any questions please give us a call.
Thanks in advance for your support!
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Greetings Action Alert Subscribers in Oregon
Western Oregon Resource Management Plans Update
As you know, the District of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is preparing a new Resource Management Plan (RMP) for BLM lands in the John Day Basin. Work to revise and consolidate the existing John Day (1985), the Two Rivers (1986), and the Baker (1989) Resource Management Plans, which began last year continues.
In June, the BLM will release their Draft Resource Management Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Statement for three months of public review and comment. Two public forums have been scheduled in February to review new web-based tools and methods for helping the public review and comment on the draft documents.
The first forum will be held in Salem on Tuesday, February 06, 2007, at the BLM Salem Office located at 1717 Fabry Road Southeast. The second forum will be in Medford on Friday, February 9, 2007, at the local BLM Medford Office located at 3040 Biddle Road. The workshops will begin at 9:00 a.m. and run until about 4:30 p.m.
In addition the BLM has released their schedule for upcoming public meetings (see schedule below.)
Tuesday, February 27, 2007 Bend High School Commons 7-9pm
230 NE 6th St
Bend, OR
Wednesday, February 28, 2007 Salem BLM Lobby Level 7-9pm
Conference Room
1717 Fabry Road S.
Salem, OR
Monday, March 5, 2007 Wheeler High School 6-8pm
600 B Street
Fossil, OR
Tuesday, March 6, 2007 The Outpost 6-8pm
201 West Main Street
John Day, OR
More information about the workshops can be obtained from the BLM's Western Oregon Planning office at: (503) 808-6629 or e-mail: orwopr@or.blm.gov, or on the internet at: http://www.blm.gov/or/plans/wopr
If you have any questions or concerns please contact BRC.
Brian Hawthorne
Public Lands Director
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
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BLUERIBBON COALITION PACIFIC NW REGIONAL ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention Idaho Recreationists!
As you know, the FS published a new rule requiring the agency to formally designate a system of roads, trails and areas where motorized vehicle use would be allowed. Forest Service regulations and other laws require the agency to conduct a planning process in collaboration with the public to help design the designated system.
The Salmon-Challis National Forest will host a series of public meetings for the Salmon-Cobalt, North Fork, Leadore and Middle Fork Ranger Districts to start developing proposals on their Travel Management Plan. These upcoming meetings will continue the route designation process that has been underway since May 2006. Please see list of meeting dates and locations below.
OHV enthusiasts need to attend in order to ensure the anti-access groups do not dominate this process as it moves forward. During this round of meetings participants are asked to submit comments on specific issues, concerns, risks and opportunities that are important for the forest and specific recommendations for changes to the OHV route system. The FS plans to release their Proposed Action to the public in early April.
For more information contact Karen Gallogly, Travel Planning Team Leader at (208) 756-5103 or email to kgallogly@fs.fed.us.
Travel Management Workshop Schedule
Wednesday, February 7, 2007 North Fork Ranger District 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm
North Folk Fire Station
Thursday, February 8, 2007 Middle Fork Ranger District 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Challis Forest Service Office
Tuesday, February 13, 2007 Salmon-Cobalt Ranger District 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and
Public Lands Center in Salmon 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Thursday, February 15, 2007 Leadore Ranger District 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Leadore Ranger District Office
PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE IN THE SALMON-CHALLIS NATIONAL FOREST GET INVOLVED NOW!
As always, if you have any questions please give us a call.
Thanks in advance for your support!
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
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Forums a Venue to Discuss Recreational Opportunities
A series of Recreation Forums convened by the American Recreation Coalition (ARC) and the National Forest Foundation in conjunction with the US Forest Service and other agencies and partners will be held throughout the country this Spring. Regional Forums will be conducted in Golden, Co, Marietta, GA, Los Angeles, CA, Portland, OR and Chicago, IL. The Regional Forums will produce information and a listing of suggestions and recommendations for a national Recreation Forum in Washington, DC, in April 2007.
Please attend the regional forum in your area to provide input about your chosen form of recreation. The forums are free, anyone can register to speak and all written comments will be accepted. These forums are an opportunity to communicate how important continued access for OHVs, snowmobiles, powerboats, horseback riders or other forms of recreation is to you.
Additional information can be obtained from the American Recreation Coalition website. It is important to note that anyone who wishes to have an opportunity to speak at the Forums will have to register in advance. We will provide you with information on how to register when it becomes available.
Save the date for the Regional Forum in your area. If you do not live near any of these forums you may still participate by submitting written comments. A website is being constructed to accept comments and we will notify you when it is complete.
Colorado
March 1
Colorado American Mountaineering Center
Golden, CO
Georgia
March 9
East Cobb Multi-Purpose Center
Marietta, GA
California
March 12
Los Angeles County Arboretum
Los Angeles, CA
Oregon
March 15
TBD
Portland, OR
Illinois
March 22
South Shore Cultural Center
Chicago, IL
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BLUERIBBON COALITION PACIFIC NW REGIONAL ACTION ALERT UPDATE!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention Washington/Oregon/Idaho Recreationists!
This is an important update on the Colville National Forest "Working Group" meetings which are planned for late February and March. The forest has just released the schedule for the Working Group meetings (see Schedule below). During this round of meetings participants will develop specific recommendations for changes or additions to the OHV route system in each project area.
ACCESS ADVISORY:
The FS says in addition to OHV routes, the second round of meetings will also discuss the dispersed camping and changes to the non-motorized trail system. BRC supports active management of all trail-based recreation, and we support comprehensive recreation management. However, we have seen instances where the agency attempts to use the existing inventory of motorized routes to develop a non-motorized system. This is why it is critically important for the OHV community to become involved in the first round of meetings.
Please plan on attending one of the orientation meetings if you plan to attend any of the working group meetings. The dates, times, and locations for the working group meetings are shown below. If you can not attend one of the orientation meetings and you would like to attend a working group meeting, please call Debbie Wilkins at 509-447-7322 or Carmen Nielsen at 509-738-7761.
Reminder of the Colville National Forest Travel Management Orientation Meeting Schedule
- all meetings are from 6:00-7:30 pm
January 25 Argonne Library, 4322 North Argonne Road in Spokane
January 30 Ione Community Center, 210 Lockwell Street in Ione
January 30 Community College of Spokane, Colville Branch, 985 South Elm Street, Colville
February 1 Republic Ranger Station, 650 East Delaware Avenue in Republic
The Colville National Forest Travel Management Working Group Meeting Schedule
Thursday, February 8, 2007 Bead Lake Project Area 5:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Newport Ranger Station
315 N. Warren
Newport, WA
Thursday, February 15, 2007 Trout Project Area 5:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Kettle Falls High School Cafeteria
1275 Juniper St
Kettle Falls, WA
Wednesday, February 21, 2007 Tacoma Project Area 5:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Cusick Community Center
107 1st Ave
Cusick, WA
Thursday, February 22, 2007 Swan Lake & Hall Creek Project Areas 5:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Republic Ranger Station
650 East Delaware Ave
Republic, WA
Saturday, March 3, 2007 North Fork Chewelah Creek & 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Middle Fork Calispel Creek Project Areas
Chewelah Peak Learning Center
Thursday, March 8, 2007 Vulcan Mt. Project Area 5:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Republic Ranger Station
650 East Delaware Ave
Republic, WA
Saturday, March 17, 2007 Paupac, Snyder Hill, and 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Little Pend Oreillle Project Areas
Ione Community Center
210 Lockwell St
Ione, WA
For more information contact Donna Nemeth, Public Affairs Office, at (509) 684-7177 or Craig Newman, RELM Staff Officer, at (509) 684-7104 or cell at (509)675-0895. Information on OHV planning is also available at the FS website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/colville/forest/re.../ohv/index.html
As always, if you have any questions please give us a call.
Thanks in advance for your support!
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE IN THE COLVILLE NATIONAL FOREST GET INVOLVED NOW!
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Greetings Washington State Recreationists!
I wanted to send you Ric Foster's update on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests' travel planning process. As you know, the FS will be developing a travel plan that will limit ALL vehicle use to designated roads, trails and areas. Ric works for BRC as public lands assistant and part of his job is to keep track the FS travel plans. You can check all of Ric's updates on BRC's Public Lands Webpage See: ( http://www.sharetrails.org/public_lands )
During the past summer the Okanogan and Wenatchee began the process by conducting several public meetings throughout the area. As a result of these meeting, they received comments from over 500 individuals and groups. The agency will now use those comments and suggestions in an analysis process on each Ranger District. The analysis process will begin this month and take approximately six months to complete. The forest has published the following timeline for completion of the Plan (see below).
The NEPA analysis will take 12-18 months, so a final decision could be made in early to mid 2009, with implementation through the publication on the Motor Vehicle Use Map in late 2009. Even though the public meetings are over, the agency will still accept input on specific roads, trails and areas that should be open for motorized vehicles. If you haven't sent the FS your ideas, please take the time to contact them soon (see below for phone numbers and email address)
We'll continue to keep you updated on the process and we'll let you know when the dates of the next round of meetings are set.
Thanks to all BRC members and supporters who commented on this important planning effort. If you have any questions or comments please call.
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests' Travel Plan Timeline:
Mid 2007 - Complete travel route analysis on each Ranger District and make those results available on maps and the website.
Late Summer/Fall 2007 - Hold a second series of public meetings to share the analysis results and see if your comments and suggestions are reflected on the maps. Gather additional input on Travel Management Planning.
Late 2007 - Begin the formal environmental analysis, as required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), by publishing a Proposed Action built upon your input and route analysis from earlier in the year.
Information is posted on the website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/oka/recreation/ohv...e-new-rec.shtml. Also for additional information one of the individuals listed below.
Forest Contacts:
Marge Hutchinson South Zone Engineer and co-team leader (509) 653-1430
Mike Rowan Naches Ranger District (509) 653-1452
Tim Foss Cle Elum Ranger District (509) 852-1069
Lisa Therrell Wenatchee River Ranger District (509) 548-6977 ext 233
Randy McLandress Entiat Ranger District (509) 784-1511
Jennifer Zbyszewski Methow Valley Ranger District (509) 996-4021
Michael Alvarado Tonasket Ranger District (509) 486-5111
Joe Kastenholz Chelan Ranger District (509) 682-2576 ext 216
Comments may also be sent to: comments-pacificnorthwest-okanogan-wenatchee@fs.fed.us
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One day a fourth-grade teacher asked the children what their fathers did for a living. All the typical answers came up -- fireman, mechanic, businessman, salesman, doctor, lawyer, and so forth. However, little Justin was being uncharacteristically quiet, so when the teacher prodded him about his father, he replied, "My father`s an exotic dancer in a gay cabaret and takes off all his clothes in front of other men and they put money in his underwear. Sometimes, if the offer is really good, he will go home with some guy and stay with him all night for money." The teacher, obviously shaken by this statement, hurriedly set the other children to work on some exercises and then took little Justin aside to ask him, "Is that really true about your father?" "No," the boy said, "He works for the Democratic National Committee and is helping to get Hillary Clinton to be our next President, but I was too embarrassed to say that in front of the other kids."
It's a New York thing. :biggrin: :biggrin:
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Bud-ip, bud-ip, bud-ip that's all folks. :biggrin:
hey I warned ya in the first one that they had a lot of the same titles.
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IMPORTANT DEADLINE FOR APACHE-SITGREAVES NATIONAL FOREST TRAVEL PLANNING PROCESS
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Arizona's Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest has set January 31 as the deadline for submitting information regarding specific roads and trails as they move to the next stage of the Travel Planning process.
The agency says it has received a fair amount of general comments, but the Planning Team wants know about specific areas, routes and trails that are important to you. In order to help gather this specific information, FS staff has created a form for folks to fill out.
BRC applauds this kind of information gathering but it won't help formulate a good travel plan if OHV users don't fill out the forms and get involved in the planning process.
The Forest has a lot maps and other useful information on their website, along with the downloadable form. See: http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/asnf/projects/trav...anagement.shtml
As always, if you have any questions please feel free to call BRC or contact Chris Bielecki, Transportation Engineer for the Apache-Sitgreaves at 928-333-4301 or by email at csbieleck1@fs.fed.us.
Thanks for your involvement,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Kerry White from Citizens for Balanced Use http://www.citizensforbalanceduse.com sent us the heads up about an important meeting so I thought I'd pass it along to all on our Montana Action Alert List.
CBU has scheduled a presentation in front of the Gallatin County Commission on January 24th at the Gallatin County Courthouse in Bozeman regarding the outrageous anti-recreation oriented Travel Management Plan recently finalized by the Gallatin National Forest. Kerry and the folks at CBU want to make certain the Gallatin County Commissioners clearly understand the negative impacts the Travel Plan will have on their constituents.
If you live near Bozeman, please make the effort to attend this important meeting. Time will be given for public comment and it is important that as many people as possible get up and speak in support of CBU and against the proposed FS closures. Please try to attend. The presentation should begin at about 1:35 pm.
If you are unable to attend, consider calling or emailing the Commission and expressing your opposition to the Gallatin National Forest closures, their number is (406) 582-3000 or their email address is commission@gallatin.mt.gov.
Gallatin County Courthouse
311 West Main
Bozeman, MT.
3rd. floor
Community Room
Wednesday, January 24th, 1:30pm
If at all possible, please take the time to attend this meeting and help our friends in Montana fight for their access to public lands in the Treasure State.
Thanks for all your hard work and support,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
HELP SUPPORT BRC'S PARTNERS IN MONTANA
Citizens for Balanced Use: http://www.citizensforbalanceduse.com
Families for Outdoor Recreation: http://www.ffor.org
Montanans for Multiple Use: http://www.mtmultipleuse.org
Montana Trail Vehicle Riders Association: http://www.mtvra.com
Treasure State Alliance http://www.snowtana.com/
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention New Mexico Recreationists!
As you know, the Forest Service (FS) published a new rule governing OHVs and other motor vehicle use on National Forests and Grasslands. Under the new rules, forests that do not already restrict OHV travel to "designated roads-and-trails" must do so, and OHVs must remain on designated roads and trails systems while on the National Forest.
This will be a four-year project for the Cibola National Forest as it addresses travel management for all its administrative units, beginning with the Sandia Ranger District and the Black Kettle National Grasslands.
The outcome of the project will be to publish a Motor Vehicle Use Map for each District that shows a designated system for motorized use.
As part of the ongoing implementation of the Travel Management Rule, the Forest Service is hosting a second Public Workshop addressing the Sandia Ranger District Travel Management Project. Workshop participants will build upon information gathered from previous workshop, the Forest Service Interdisciplinary Team and from the Sandia Travel Management Work Group.
Workshop information:
Wednesday, January 24, 2007 University of New Mexico 6:00 to 9:00 PM
Continuing Education Conference Center
(North Building), Room C
1634 University Blvd. NE
Albuquerque, NM
Meeting Objectives:
1. Provide review and comment on proposed route designation criteria.
2. Provide review and comment on potential "areas of concern" for motorized use on the Sandia District.
3. Provide review and comment on preliminary high priority routes and areas currently in use and proposed high priority routes and areas.
How to prepare for the public workshop:
Please come prepared if you have routes or areas to identify. You will have the opportunity to identify on maps provided at the meeting:
1. Your highest priority routes and areas currently in use and why you value them.
2. Future high priority routes and areas and why you would think that they should be considered.
For additional information contact:
Mary Bean, Travel Management Team Leader at (505) 346-3883 or by email to mebean@fs.fed.us.
PLEASE, IF YOU RECREATE IN THE CIBOLA NATIONAL FORESTS, GET INVOLVED NOW!
As always, if you have any questions or concerns please contact BRC.
Thanks in advance for your involvement,
Brian Hawthorne
Public Lands Director
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
TO ALL OUR SUBSCRIBERS IN NEW MEXICO THE FOLLOWING IS AN UPDATE ON TRAVEL MANAGEMENT PLANNING IN YOUR STATE:
New Mexico National Forests:
Carson National Forest: http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/carson/
208 Cruz Alta Road
Taos, NM 87571
(505) 758-6200
Travel Management Plan route designations are well under way with a series of seven public meetings/open houses held during July 2006. These meetings included an overview of the new Travel Management Rule and a map display of the currently designated system. The public had the opportunity to tell the Forest Service what changes from the currently designated road and motorized trail system should be considered. There are some existing routes on the forest that are not currently part of the designated system of roads and trails, and it is important to get these roads and trails added now. Once the system of roads, trails and areas is designated, motorized travel off the designated system will be prohibited.
Now that information has been gathered the Carson National Forest is working on developing a proposal which will then be made available to the public for additional comments. Additional meetings to review the proposal will be held beginning in early 2007.
The forest has gotten their Travel Management website up and is posting some information on the planning process there http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/carson/recreation/...gmt/index.shtml. You can also get additional information and get placed on the mailing list by contacting Steve Okamoto, Travel Management Plan Project Managers at (505) 758-6370 or by email to sokamoto@fs.fed.us.
Cibola National Forest: http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/cibola/
2113 Osuna Road, NE, Suite A
Albuquerque, NM 87113
(505) 346-3900
The Cibola National Forest's Travel Management Plan route designation is in the beginning stages and over the next three to four years they will be completing planning on the entire forest. They will start the process on two Ranger Districts each year starting with Sandia Ranger District and Black Kettle and McClellan Creek National Grasslands beginning this year. In 2007, the Mountainair Ranger District and Kiowa and Rita Blanca National Grasslands will begin their process, followed by Mt. Taylor and Magdalena Ranger Districts starting in 2008.
On October 26, 2006, over 60 participants attended the Public Workshop to kick off the Travel Management Planning for the Sandia District of the Cibola National Forest. Overall, the workshop presented baseline information on the Travel Management Rule and provided an opportunity for participants to identify and discuss: what kind of recreation experiences they are looking for; what roads, trails and areas do they currently value and why; and what's working with the current road and trail system and what is not.
The Sandia Ranger District will host a second public workshop on January 24, 2007, to seek public input on the District's transportation system. The workshop will be held at the UNM Conference Center, 1634 University Blvd NE, Room C, Albuquerque, NM, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
On November 14, 2006, Sandia Travel Management Work Group held their first meeting at the Cibola National Forest Supervisor's Office. The objectives were to develop a set of operation protocols that describe the purpose, product and process for the work group. They also developed a preliminary list of travel management concerns based on input from Public Workshop 1 and the Forest Service Interdisciplinary Team. In addition, they integrated information from Public Workshop 1 with information provided by the Forest Service interdisciplinary team.
The group discussed future meeting locations and dates which will be:
Tuesday, January 16, Sandia Ranger Station
Tuesday, February 27, Cibola National Forest Supervisor's Office
Tuesday, May 1, Los Vecinos Community Center (tentative location)
Once all the information is collected, a review of the data will be done to come up with proposed routes. Once that is done, the formal NEPA process will begin. There is currently some information on the forest website located at http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/cibola/travel-management/index.shtml. You can also get on the mailing list or email updates by contact Mary Bean, Travel Management Team Leader at (505) 346-3883 or by email to mebean@fs.fed.us.
Gila National Forest: http://www2.srs.fs.fed.us/r3/gila/
3005 E. Camino del Bosque
Silver City, NM 88061
(505) 388-8201
The Gila National Forest is still in the early stages of their Travel Management Plan process. All Ranger Districts have been holding public meetings showing the public the current maps and asking for public comments and input on routes and trails they want added to the inventory. Districts are preparing their preliminary proposals for a designated travel system. Maps of the proposed designated travel system are now available at http://www2.srs.fs.fed.us/r3/gila/travel/maps.shtml.
The Environmental Analysis will occur in 2007-2008, and final maps of system will be published by 2009 with signing of the designated open system of roads and trails to be completed before the Motor Vehicle Use Map is published.
The Travel Management webpage for the forest is located at http://www2.srs.fs.fed.us/r3/gila/travel/and you can get additional information or placed on the mailing list by contacting Lisa Mizuno, Travel Management Plan Project Manager at (505) 388-8267 or by email to lmizuno@fs.fed.us.
Lincoln National Forest: http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/lincoln/
1101 New York Ave.
Alamogordo, New Mexico 88310
(505) 434-7200
The Lincoln National Forest is planning to review and revise the designated route system of roads and trails for motorized vehicle travel and are gathering information to better understand the purpose and need for change. This process will include public input and coordination with state, county, tribal and local governments. They will be posting a schedule of open houses and public meetings which they expect to begin holding in spring 2007.
The information gathered from the public meetings will help the forest prepare a Proposed Action. They will implement the environmental analysis process defined by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) when they have prepared that Proposed Action, which is expected to be some time in 2007. The timeline for the Travel Management Process is listed below:
November 2006 Complete Travel Analysis Report
February 2007 Issue Proposed Action
Spring 2007 Public Comment Period
Fall 2008 Complete NEPA document (format to be decided)
Fall 2008 Publish Record of Decision
Winter-Spring 2009 Motor-Vehicle Map Published
Anyone interested in participating in this process they can contact any of the offices listed below.
Guadalupe District
Larry Paul or Deanna Younger
505-885-7400
Sacramento District
Marcie Kelton or Brian Long
505-682-2551
Smokey Bear District
Richard Carlson or Clark Taylor
505-257-4095
You can also get on the mailing list or email updates by sending an email request to Nancy Taylor, Travel Management Coordinator at ntaylor@fs.fed.us. You can get more information on the Lincoln National Forest's Travel Management webpage at http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/lincoln/MRI/index.htm.
Santa Fe National Forest: http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/sfe/
1474 Rodeo Road
Santa Fe, NM 87505
(505) 438-7840
The Santa Fe National Forest began their Travel Management Plan process with a series of informational meetings held during August and September 2006. These meetings were well attended by the OHV community and approximately 350 people participated. At the meetings, Forest Service staff identified how the public can be involved in every step of the Travel Planning and Analysis processes.
The deadline for submitting information pertaining to the location of "user created" and "traditional" routes has been extended from September 30, 2006, to January 15, 2007.
The next round of meetings was held during November and December 2006. During these Phase 1 workshops, participants were asked to describe the types of forest experiences such as: hunting, gathering forest products, camping, hiking, motorized recreation and other forms of recreation that are of particular interest, and to identify places on the Forest where they like to pursue these interests. Participants had the opportunity to interact with Forest Service staff and were encouraged to submit written comments, and identify places of interest or concern on maps.
You can get on the mailing list or email updates by sending an email request to Robert Potts, Forest Planner at robertpotts@fs.fed.usor by phone at (505) 438-7829. The Santa Fe National Forest Travel Management website is up and running with lots of good information including Travel Management Maps; click the following link http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/sfe/travelmgt/index.html. They plan on completing the Travel Management Plan by January 1, 2010.
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention Southern Idaho and Northern Nevada Recreationist!
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Twin Falls District is preparing a Resource Management Plan (RMP) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Jarbidge Field Office. As part of that ongoing process they will be hosting a Data Fair to give the public an opportunity to review the data to be used for developing the Jarbidge RMP.
Displays will include maps, scientific literature and data collected over the past year including summaries of the Ecological Site Inventory, a current vegetation map, road inventories and results of wildlife population and habitat studies.
The Data Fair will be an interactive and informal open house. This is your opportunity to meet and visit with the Jarbidge RMP interdisciplinary Team, comment on the displayed data, and provide any data or information you may have.
The BLM will provide maps for attendees to indicate special areas for recreation, wildlife, or other resources and uses. The Field Office staff will also accept data and information prior to the event for those unable to attend and will be able to give presentations on specific data or topics upon request.
Date: Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Time: 3:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Herrett Center
College of Southern Idaho, Twin Falls
PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE IN ANY OF THESE AREAS GET INVOLVED NOW! PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IS CRUCIAL TO KEEP RECREATION AREAS OPEN.
Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention Northern Arizona and Southern Utah Recreationists!
The Kaibab National Forest is continuing work on their Travel Management Plan route designation. The Forest Service (FS) is currently working on route identification for the Williams Ranger District.
The City of Williams is sponsoring a Town Hall meeting to discuss the travel management project on the Williams Ranger District. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 18, 2007, and will begin at 6:00 pm at the Williams Elementary-Middle School auditorium on 7th Street.
Resource specialists from the Kaibab National Forest will be on hand to take comments and answer questions. If you are unable to attend the meeting, but have comments or questions about the travel management project, please contact Chip Ernst at (928) 635-8317. Electronic comments can be submitted to comments-southwestern-kaibab@fs.fed.us.
PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE IN THE KAIBAB NATIONAL FOREST GET INVOLVED NOW!
Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention Nebraska recreationists!
Paul Slavik from the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC), just emailed us a reminder about the Nebraska Route Designation Workshop for Land Managers, OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders, scheduled for February 2007 in Grand Island, NE. The dates, times and place are posted below, so mark your calendar and plan to attend.
Don't forget, the purpose of these workshops is to assist the Forest Service and the OHV community in effective implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule in their State. For more information on how this process can affect you, check out NOHVCC's website: www.nohvcc.orgor contact Paul Slavik at (714) 964-7217 Home or (310) 717-9674 Cell.
PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE IN THE NEBRASKA OR SAMUEL R. MCKELVIE NATIONAL FORESTS GET INVOLVED NOW!
Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
_________________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release CONTACT: Paul Slavik
November 6, 2006 PHONE: 310-717-9674
EMAIL: paulslavik@nohvcc.org
Route Designation Workshop
For Land Managers, OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders
February 15-18, 2007
Interstate Holiday Inn
7838 S. Hwy. 281
Grand Island, NE 68803
308-384-7770
USFS Personnel - Thursday, Feb. 15, 8AM - 5PM
- Friday, Feb. 16, 8AM - 1PM
Public - Saturday, Feb. 17, 8AM - 5PM
- Sunday, Feb. 18, 8AM - 3:30PM
The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC), in cooperation with the Nebraska NF is conducting a Motorized Route Designation Workshop in February for agency personnel and other stakeholders. The purpose of this workshop is to assist the Forest Service and other stakeholders in effective implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule in their State. While the sessions on Thursday and Friday are designed primarily for Forest Service personnel and the sessions on Saturday and Sunday are designed primarily for the public, the sessions are open to all who want to attend and there is no charge. Continental breakfast will be served at 7:30 AM each day. Lunch and breaks will also be provided.
Registration is required on-line at:
https://conference.nohvcc.org/?EVENT&EV...;template=rdwNE
Or you may visit www.nohvcc.organd click on the "Forest Service OHV Route Designation Workshops and Database" link to register.
The registration deadline is February 7. For questions about registration contact Ann Vance at 800-348-6487 or e-mail avance@nohvc.org
NOHVCC has secured a limited number of rooms at the Holiday Inn Express, 7838 S. Hwy. 281, 308-384-7770. These rooms are on a first come basis at the rate of $60 single, $65 double + tax per night. Ask for the NOHVCC room block. Deadline for this rate is February 10. After that date, call for price and availability.
This national workshop series is sponsored by the Americans for Responsible Recreational Access (ARRA), the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) and the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA). Coordination of the workshops is provided by the NOHVCC. Design of the workshop sessions was a collaborative effort by professional trail consultants, ARRA, MIC, SVIA, American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), Blue Ribbon Coalition (BRC), United Four Wheel Drive Associations (UFWDA), and NOHVCC, with input from USFS trail managers.
The Agency Workshop objectives are:
*To develop a better understanding of the needs and concerns of OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders in implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule
*To improve the quality and the sustainability of trails, trail systems and areas through the implementation process
*To improve OHV enthusiast and other stakeholder input and support for the implementation process
*To increase partnerships between the USFS, the OHV industry, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
*To facilitate better communication between the USFS, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders Workshop objectives are:
*To develop an understanding of the FS Travel Management Rule
*To help OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders become more active in route designation decisions
*To help OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders understand how to improve the quality and sustainability of trails, trails systems and areas through the implementation process
*To increase partnerships between the USFS, the OHV industry, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
*To facilitate better communication between the USFS, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council is a non-profit educational foundation. For information regarding NOHVCC and its workshop programs visit its website at www.nohvcc.org.
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Americans for Responsible Recreational Access (ARRA)
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
BRC just received the following press release from the USDA Forest Service on the retirement of Chief Dale Bosworth. Abigail Kimbell, the Regional Forester for the Northern Region out of Missoula, MT, has been named to succeed him.
Thanks for your continued support,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
________________________________________________________________________________
NEWS RELEASE
USDA Forest Service
Washington, D.C.
Release No. 0009.07
Contact: Joe Walsh (202) 205-1134
Keith Williams (202) 720-4623
Press Office, (202) 205-1134
USDA ANNOUNCES ABIGAIL KIMBELL AS THE 16TH CHIEF OF THE FOREST SERVICE
Forest Service Chief Dale Bosworth Announces his Retirement
WASHINGTON, January 12, 2007 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the selection of Abigail Kimbell as the 16th chief of the Forest Service. Kimbell succeeds Chief Dale Bosworth, who is retiring on Feb. 2 after 41 years with the Forest Service.
"Abigail Kimbell is a veteran of the Forest Service who began as a seasonal worker and has since filled an impressive series of field assignments," said Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns. "Gail brings a wealth of knowledge to her new position. She is well respected both within the agency and by our stakeholders. I'm confident she will do a terrific job as chief."
"I am grateful to Dale Bosworth for his 41 years of public service and especially for the tremendous leadership he provided during his six years as chief," Johanns continued. "I am struck by all that the Forest Service accomplished under his watch, from advancing the Healthy Forest Initiative to a four-fold increase in fuels treatment work. He also bolstered the agency's financial system, making it a source of pride government wide. I wish Dale all the best in retirement."
Kimbell currently serves as Regional Forester for the Northern Region in Missoula, Montana, which includes northern Idaho, and North Dakota. As Forest Service Chief, Kimbell will oversee an organization of over 30,000 employees and a budget of just over $4 billion. Before becoming regional forester, Kimbell served in the Washington Office as Associate Deputy Chief for the National Forest System, with responsibility for assisting in the development of the Healthy Forest Restoration
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention New Mexico recreationists!
Paul Slavik from the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC), just emailed us their news release on the New Mexico Route Designation Workshop for Land Managers, OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders, scheduled for March 2007 in Albuquerque, NM. The dates, times and place are posted below, so mark your calendar and plan to attend.
Don't forget, the purpose of these workshops is to assist the Forest Service and the OHV community in effective implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule in their State. For more information on how this process can affect you, check out NOHVCC's website: www.nohvcc.orgor contact Paul Slavik at (714) 964-7217 Home or (310) 717-9674 Cell.
PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE IN THE CIBOLA AND SANTA FE NATIONAL FORESTS GET INVOLVED NOW!
Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
__________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release CONTACT: Paul Slavik
January 12, 2007 PHONE: 310-717-9674
EMAIL: paulslavik@nohvcc.org
Route Designation Workshop
For Land Managers, OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders
March 1- 4, 2007
Hilton Albuquerque
1901 University Boulevard N.E.
Albuquerque, NM 87102
505-884-2500
USFS Personnel - Thursday, March 1, 8AM - 5PM
- Friday, March 2, 8AM - 1PM
Public - Saturday, March 3, 8AM - 5PM
- Sunday, March 4, 8AM - 3:30PM
Note: This is an amended press release; please discard the previous one dated December 18, 2006.
The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC), in cooperation with the Cibola National Forest, is conducting a Motorized Route Designation Workshop in March, 2007 for agency personnel and other stakeholders. The purpose of this workshop is to assist the Forest Service and other stakeholders in effective implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule in their State. While the sessions on Thursday and Friday are designed primarily for Forest Service personnel and the sessions on Saturday and Sunday are designed primarily for the public, the sessions are open to all who want to attend and there is no charge. Continental breakfast will be served at 7:30 AM each day. Lunch and breaks will also be provided.
Registration is required on-line at:
https://conference.nohvcc.org/?EVENT&EV...;template=rdwNM
Or you may visit www.nohvcc.organd click on the "Forest Service OHV Route Designation Workshops and Database" link to register.
The registration deadline is February 19, 2007. For questions about registration contact Ann Vance at 888-458-0131or e-mail avance@nohvcc.org
NOHVCC has secured a limited number of rooms at the Hilton Albuquerque, 1901 University Boulevard N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87102, phone 505-884-2500, ext. 3401. These rooms are on a first come basis at the rate of $70 + tax per night. Ask for the NOHVCC room block. Deadline for this rate is February 7, 2007. After that date, call for price and availability.
This national workshop series is sponsored by the Americans for Responsible Recreational Access (ARRA), the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) and the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA). Coordination of the workshops is provided by the NOHVCC. Design of the workshop sessions was a collaborative effort by professional trail consultants, ARRA, MIC, SVIA, American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), Blue Ribbon Coalition (BRC), United Four Wheel Drive Associations (UFWDA), and NOHVCC, with input from USFS trail managers.
The Agency Workshop objectives are:
*To develop a better understanding of the needs and concerns of OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders in implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule
*To improve the quality and the sustainability of trails, trail systems and areas through the implementation process
*To improve OHV enthusiast and other stakeholder input and support for the implementation process
*To increase partnerships between the USFS, the OHV industry, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
*To facilitate better communication between the USFS, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders Workshop objectives are:
*To develop an understanding of the FS Travel Management Rule
*To help OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders become more active in route designation decisions
*To help OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders understand how to improve the quality and sustainability of trails, trails systems and areas through the implementation process
*To increase partnerships between the USFS, the OHV industry, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
*To facilitate better communication between the USFS, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council is a non-profit educational foundation. For information regarding NOHVCC and its workshop programs visit its website at www.nohvcc.org.
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention Arkansas recreationists!
Paul Slavik from the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC), just emailed us a reminder about the Arkansas Route Designation Workshop for Land Managers, OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders, scheduled for March 2007 in Hot Springs, AR. The dates, times and place are posted below, so mark your calendar and plan to attend.
Don't forget, the purpose of these workshops is to assist the Forest Service and the OHV community in effective implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule in their State. For more information on how this process can affect you, check out NOHVCC's website: www.nohvcc.orgor contact Paul Slavik at (714) 964-7217 Home or (310) 717-9674 Cell.
PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE IN THE OUACHITA OR OZARK-ST. FRANCIS NATIONAL FORESTS GET INVOLVED NOW!
Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
_________________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release CONTACT: Paul Slavik
December 18, 2006 PHONE: 310-717-9674
EMAIL: paulslavk@nohvcc.org
Route Designation Workshop
For Land Managers, OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders
March 8 - 11, 2007
Clarion Resort on the Lake
4813 Central Ave.
Hot Springs, AR 71913
501-525-1391
USFS Personnel - Thursday, March 8, 8AM - 5PM
- Friday, March 9, 8AM - 1PM
Public - Saturday, March 10, 8AM - 5PM
- Sunday, March 11, 8AM - 3:30PM
The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC), in cooperation with the Ouachita National Forest, is conducting a Motorized Route Designation Workshop in March, 2007 for agency personnel and other stakeholders. The purpose of this workshop is to assist the Forest Service and other stakeholders in effective implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule in their State. While the sessions on Thursday and Friday are designed primarily for Forest Service personnel and the sessions on Saturday and Sunday are designed primarily for the public, the sessions are open to all who want to attend and there is no charge. Continental breakfast will be served at 7:30 AM each day. Lunch and breaks will also be provided.
Registration is required on-line at:
https://conference.nohvcc.org/?EVENT&EV...;template=rdwAR
Or you may visit http://www.nohvcc.org/and click on the "Forest Service OHV Route Designation Workshops and Database" link to register.
Arkansas registration deadline is February 26, 2007. For questions about registration contact Ann Vance at 800-348-6487 or e-mail avance@nohvcc.org
NOHVCC has secured a limited number of rooms at the Clarion Resort on the Lake, 4813 Central Ave., Hot Springs, AR 71913, phone 501-525-1391. These rooms are on a first come basis at the single rate of $87.00, or the double rate of $97.00 + tax per night. Ask for the NOHVCC room block. Deadline for this rate is January 24, 2007. After that date, call for price and availability.
This national workshop series is sponsored by the Americans for Responsible Recreational Access (ARRA), the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) and the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA). Coordination of the workshops is provided by the NOHVCC. Design of the workshop sessions was a collaborative effort by professional trail consultants, ARRA, MIC, SVIA, American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), Blue Ribbon Coalition (BRC), United Four Wheel Drive Associations (UFWDA), and NOHVCC, with input from USFS trail managers.
The Agency Workshop objectives are:
*To develop a better understanding of the needs and concerns of OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders in implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule
*To improve the quality and the sustainability of trails, trail systems and areas through the implementation process
*To improve OHV enthusiast and other stakeholder input and support for the implementation process
*To increase partnerships between the USFS, the OHV industry, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
*To facilitate better communication between the USFS, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders Workshop objectives are:
*To develop an understanding of the FS Travel Management Rule
*To help OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders become more active in route designation decisions
*To help OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders understand how to improve the quality and sustainability of trails, trails systems and areas through the implementation process
*To increase partnerships between the USFS, the OHV industry, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
*To facilitate better communication between the USFS, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council is a non-profit educational foundation. For information regarding NOHVCC and its workshop programs visit its website at www.nohvcc.org.
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention Michigan recreationists!
Paul Slavik from the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC), just emailed us a reminder about the Michigan Route Designation Workshop For Land Managers, OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders, scheduled for February 2007 in Grayling, MI. The dates, times and place are posted below, so mark your calendar and plan to attend.
Don't forget, the purpose of these workshops is to assist the Forest Service and the OHV community in effective implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule in their State. For more information on how this process can affect you, check out NOHVCC's website: www.nohvcc.orgor contact Paul Slavik at (714) 964-7217 Home or (310) 717-9674 Cell.
PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE IN THE MANISTEE AND HURON NATIONAL FORESTS GET INVOLVED NOW!
Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
____________________________________________________
For Immediate Release CONTACT: Paul Slavik
December 1, 2006 PHONE: 310-717-9674
EMAIL: paulslavik@nohvcc.org
Route Designation Workshop
For Land Managers, OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders
February 1 - 4, 2007
Holiday Inn
2650 Business Loop South I-75
Grayling, MI 49738
989-348-7611
USFS Personnel - Thursday, February 1, 8AM - 5PM
- Friday, February 2, 8AM - 12PM
Public - Saturday, February 3, 8AM - 5PM
- Sunday, February 4, 8AM - 4PM
The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC), in cooperation with the Manistee and Huron National Forests, is conducting a Motorized Route Designation Workshop in February 2007, for agency personnel and other stakeholders. The purpose of this workshop is to assist the Forest Service and other stakeholders in effective implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule in their State. While the sessions on Thursday and Friday are designed primarily for Forest Service personnel and the sessions on Saturday and Sunday are designed primarily for the public, the sessions are open to all who want to attend and there is no charge. Sign in will open and a continental breakfast will be served at 7:30 AM each day; lunch and breaks will also be provided.
Registration is required on-line at:
https://conference.nohvcc.org/?EVENT&EV...;template=rdwMI
The registration deadline is January 26, 2007. For questions about registration contact Ann Vance at 800-348-6487 or e-mail avance@nohvcc.org.
NOHVCC has secured a limited number of rooms at the Holiday Inn. These rooms are on a first come basis at the rate $65.00 + tax per night. Ask for the NOHVCC room block. Deadline for this rate is January 24, 2007. After that date, call for price and availability.
This national workshop series is sponsored by the Americans for Responsible Recreational Access (ARRA), the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) and the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA). Coordination of all workshops is by the NOHVCC. Design of the workshop sessions was a collective effort by professional trail consultants, ARRA, MIC, SVIA, American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), Blue Ribbon Coalition (BRC), United Four Wheel Drive Associations (UFWDA), and NOHVCC, with input from USFS trail managers.
The Agency Workshop objectives are:
*To develop a better understanding of the needs and concerns of OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders in implementation of the USFS Travel Management Rule
*To improve the quality and the sustainability of trails, trail systems and areas through the implementation process
*To improve OHV enthusiast and other stakeholder input and support for the implementation process
*To increase partnerships between the USFS, the OHV industry, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
*To facilitate better communication between the USFS, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
OHV Enthusiasts and Other Stakeholders Workshop objectives are:
*To develop an understanding of the FS Travel Management Rule
*To help OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders become more active in route designation decisions
*To help OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders understand how to improve the quality and sustainability of trails, trails systems and areas through the implementation process
*To increase partnerships between the USFS, the OHV industry, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
*To facilitate better communication between the USFS, OHV enthusiasts and other stakeholders
The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council is a non-profit educational foundation. For information regarding NOHVCC and its workshop programs visit its website at www.nohvcc.org.
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!
Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,
Attention Southern Utah and Northern Arizona recreationists!
BRC's public lands staff (namely, Brian Hawthorne) was doing some extremely important "trail surveys" over the Holidays and was unable to get this alert out to our members in Utah and Arizona. Apologies for the late notice!
The Dixie National Forest is developing a Motorized Travel Plan that will limit ALL vehicle use to designated roads, trails and areas. The Forest Service (FS) has released their "Proposed Action" and are seeking comments from anyone that may be interested in or affected by the proposed travel plan. Your comments will help them assess the proposed action, develop alternatives and prepare a draft environmental impact statement.
The Dixie NF is home to some of Utah's premier OHV trails, including the Paiute Trail, the Freemont ATV Trail and portions of the Great Western Trail.
The Dixie NF is holding a series of public meetings:
* Today in Panguitch, Utah (at the City Library and Offices, 25 South 200 East, Panguitch, UT, 12:00 to 8:00 pm)
* Salt Lake City on Thursday, January 18, 2007 (at the Salt Lake City Library, Level 4 Meeting Room, 210 East 400 South, Salt Lake City, UT, 12:00 to 8:00 pm).
* Another meeting is set for January 24, 2007 in Torrey, Utah (at the Wonderland Inn, Utah State Highways 12 and 24, Torrey, UT 12:00 to 8:00 pm).
There is a 48-day comment period that began December 15, 2006. BRC will be sending another Action Alert with a brief analysis of the Dixie's proposal prior to the January 31 comment deadline.
PLEASE KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR EMAIL INBOX FOR THE NEXT DIXIE NF TRAVEL PLAN ALERT!
ACCESS ADVISORY:
The Dixie is testing a new web-based "interactive maps and route data" system. If it works 'as advertised,' it should be very useful for making route specific comments. See: http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/dixie/projects/MTP/index.shtml.
The Dixie is a BIG forest. OHV users may need to view the large paper maps in order to comment effectively. These forest-wide maps are located for public viewing at the following Ranger District offices:
Pine Valley Ranger District, 196 E. Tabernacle, Suite 40, St. George, UT 84770;
Phone: (435) 652-3100.
Cedar City Ranger District, 1789 Wedgewood Lane, Cedar City, UT 84720;
Phone: (435) 865-3200; TTY for the hearing impaired: (435) 865-3719.
Powell Ranger District, 225 East Center Street, Panguitch, UT 84759-0080;
Phone (435) 676-9300.
Escalante Ranger District, 755 West Main, Escalante, UT 84726-0246;
Phone: (435) 826-5400.
Fremont River Ranger District, 138 South Main, Loa, UT, 84747;
Phone: (435) 836-2800.
For the convenience of interested people living in Kane County, maps will also be located at the North Kaibab Ranger District, 430 South Main Street, Fredonia, AZ, 86022; Phone: (928)-643-7395.
Comments or questions should be directed to Noelle Meier, Dixie National Forest Motorized Travel Plan Team Leader, 1789 N. Wedgewood Lane, Cedar City, Utah 84720; Phone: (435) 865-3225 FAX: (435) 865-3791.
You may also hand-deliver your comments to the above address during normal business hours from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays. Oral comments may be provided during normal business hours via telephone 435-865-3700, in person at one of the district offices listed below, or at an official agency function (i.e. public meeting) that is designed to elicit public comments. Electronic comments may be submitted to comments_dixie_motorized_travel_plan@fs.fed.usin a format such as an e-mail message, plain text (.txt), rich text format (.rtf), or Word (.doc).
As always, please call BRC if you have any questions.
Brian (spending WAY too much of his time riding in Utah) Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102
WTF pipebomb?
in General Banshee Discussion
Posted
well since they were all for different areas and different meeting places & times, I figured I'd sperate them for those who only 1 or a few apply to. But apparently I'm an incompetent retard and shouldn't be taking on the burden of thinking on my own and passing along important information in order to save places to ride. But unlike those of us in NY, I guess you're all far more blessed with thousands of places to ride, so you not concerned a few closing. If it's such a big fucking problem, just have the god damn things deleted and I won't bother passing them along anymore.