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 Post subject: BRC ACTION ALERTS
PostPosted: Mon Dec 10, 2007 1:47 pm 
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ISSUE OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE
IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUESTED

"A Wilderness Study Area by any other name... still stinks!"

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

The Bureau of Land Management in Utah is Ground Zero for an epic land use battle that could close tens of millions of acres of BLM lands across the West.

The issue concerns the question of whether or not the BLM can create millions of acres of NEW Wilderness Study Areas across the West.

There will be a series of key public comment periods regarding this issue, but perhaps one of the most important deadlines is THIS THURSDAY, December 13, 2007. That is the deadline for the Price Field Office's Resource Management Plan revision.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
This issue extends beyond Utah BLM lands. Utah is Ground Zero on an effort to change the law to allow for an ongoing, never ending expansion of Wilderness Study Areas across all BLM lands.

Fortunately for you, dear BRC Action Alert subscriber, making effective comments on this issue is extremely easy. There are four simple comments below that you need to make. Simply cut and paste these into an email and click send.

As always, if you have any questions or need any help, please call.

Brian Hawthorne 208-237-1008 ext 102
Ric Foster 208-237-1008 ext 107
BlueRibbon Coalition Public Lands Department

SITUATION:
In a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS), Utah BLM's Price Field Office is proposing to designate somewhere in the neighborhood of one million acres of new Wilderness Study Areas. "Isn't that illegal?" You ask? Yes, it is, but BLM says it's legal because these WSAs aren't "WSAs," they are actually "Non-WSA lands with wilderness characteristics." But you asks; "aren't they managed the same as WSAs?" Exactly!

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO:
Send the BLM a quick email with the four comments below.

Send your email comment letter to:
Bureau of Land Management, Price Field Office, 125 South 600 West, Price, Utah, 84501

E-Mail: UT_Pr_Comments@blm.gov

IMPORTANT: Put "Comments on Price RMP SEIS" in the subject line and be certain to include your name and address. A return email address is NOT sufficient! (BLM often discards "anonymous" email comments.)

Dear Price BLM,

I would like to make the following comments on the Price Field Office SEIS:

1) I believe the BLM is establishing new WSAs without the authority to do so. Calling a new WSA by a different name does not make it legal.

2) Please disclose the difference in management prescriptions between "non WSA lands with wilderness characteristics" and WSAs in the FEIS.

3) The 1999 inventory found lands that contain extensive OHV trails to have "wilderness characteristics." If the presence of OHV use did not impact the presence or absence of "wilderness characteristics," then by what rationale is the BLM proposing to significantly reduce OHV trails in these areas?

4) The SEIS is utilizing the Utah BLM 1999 statewide wilderness re-inventory. This inventory was based on criteria that were not available for public comment and review. As an OHV user who will be directly affected by your decision, regulations say I should have a chance to review and comment on such criteria.

YOUR NAME
YOUR ADDRESS



MORE INFO:
BRC's Utah RMP Website: http://www.sharetrails.org/public_lands ... MoabUpdate
Price BLM Website: http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/price/planning.html

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PostPosted: Mon Dec 17, 2007 3:49 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

Proposed RMP and Final EIS for Ely Field Office Available

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has prepared a Proposed Resource Management Plan/Final Environmental Impact Statement (PRMP/FEIS) for public lands and resources administered by the Ely Field Office, Nevada.

The Ely RMP planning area is located in east-central Nevada in Lincoln, White Pine and a portion of Nye counties. The planning area addressed in the RMP/EIS contains approximately 11.5 million acres of public lands administered by the BLM Ely Field Office and the Caliente Field Station.

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. In addition, the BLM has been considering nominations for potential Areas of Critical Concern (ACEC) and nominations of rivers for possible inclusion in the Wild and Scenic Rivers System.

The PRMP/FEIS considers and analyzes five (5) alternatives, including the BLM's Proposed RMP, the No Action Alternative (continuation of existing management), and alternatives that emphasize restoration of ecological systems, commodity production, and exclusion of permitted discretionary uses. These alternatives were developed based on public input including public scoping comments; numerous meetings with local, county, state, tribal, and federal agencies (cooperating agencies); informal meetings with interested organizations upon their request; and public and agency comments on the Draft RMP/EIS. The alternatives provide for an array of alternative land use allocations and variable levels of commodity production and resource protection and restoration. After any protests are resolved and any pertinent adjustments are made, an approved RMP and Record of Decision are expected to be available by the end of 2007.

The issues addressed in the formulation of alternatives include maintenance and restoration of resiliency of vegetation within the Great Basin and Mojave Desert. Protection and management of habitats for special status species, upland and riparian habitat management, noxious weed control, commercial uses (including livestock grazing, special recreation permits, mineral development, oil and gas leasing, rights-of-way, and communication use areas), designation of areas of critical environmental concern (ACECs), travel management, land disposal, and management of wild horses.

Documents pertinent to the PRMP/FEIS will be available for public review at the Ely Field Office, 702 North Industrial Way, Ely, Nevada during regular business hours, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. Review copies of the PRMP/FEIS are available at the following locations in and near the planning area:

BLM Caliente Field Station BLM Elko Field Office
BLM Ely Field Office BLM Las Vegas Field Office
BLM Nevada State Office Forest Service Ely Ranger District
Great Basin National Park Lincoln County Courthouse
Lincoln County Public Library Nye County Courthouse
Nye County Public Library White Pine County Courthouse
White Pine County Public Library

The PRMP/FEIS may also be viewed and downloaded in PDF format at the Ely RMP Web site at http://www.blm.gov/nv/st/en/fo/ely_field_office.html.

Instructions for filing a protest with the Director of the BLM regarding the PRMP/FEIS may be found at 43 CFR 1610.5-2. Electronic mail and facsimile protests will be considered only if the protesting party provides BLM with the original letter by either regular or overnight mail postmarked by the close of the protest period. Under those conditions, the BLM will consider the electronic or facsimile version as an advance copy and it will receive full consideration. If you wish to provide the BLM with such advance notification, please direct faxed protests to the attention of the BLM protest coordinator at (202) 452-5112, and e-mails to Brenda_Hudgens-Williams@blm.gov. All protests must be in writing and mailed to one of the following addresses:

Regular Mail: Director (210), Attention: Brenda Williams, P.O. Box 66538, Washington, DC 20035.

Overnight Mail: Director (210), Attention: Brenda Williams, 1620 L Street, NW., Suite 1075, Washington, DC 20036.

Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your protest, you should be aware that your entire protest--including your personal identifying information--may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your protest to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.

For further information and/or to have your name added to the mailing list, contact Jeff Weeks, RMP Project Manager, 702 North Industrial Way, Ely, Nevada 89301, (775) 289-1825, or correspond by e-mail to elyrmp@blm.gov.

PLEASE IF YOU RECREATE IN NEVADA, GET INVOLVED NOW! PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IS CRUCIAL TO KEEP OR INCREASE RECREATION AREAS.

Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
Public Lands Policy Director
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102

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 Post subject:
PostPosted: Mon Dec 17, 2007 8:46 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION LANDUSE UPDATE

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

Tahoe National Forest Route Designation/Travel Management Planning Update

Today I received an email from Ann Westling, Public Affairs Officer for the Tahoe National Forest, with a Route Designation/Travel Management Planning Update. Please take a couple of minutes to read it over and pass it on.

Wishing all of you a wonderful holiday season,

Brian Hawthorne and Ric Foster
Public Lands Department
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 107

___________________________________________________

Subject: TNF Route Designation/Travel Management Update
From: Ann Westling <awestling@fs.fed.us>
Sender: FS Route Designation <FS-ROUTE-DESIGNATION@newsbox.usda.gov>
Date: 12/14/2007 2:34 PM
To: brrichard@sharetrails.org

Tahoe National Forest
Route Designation/Travel Management Planning
December, 2007 Update

Message from Steve Eubanks, Forest Supervisor:
I'd like to wish you all a happy holiday season and to thank you for your continued interest and assistance in this project. Many of you have spent quite a bit of time this past year assisting us with the following:

Maintaining both the motorized and non-motorized trail system;
Maintaining various facilities when our funding was reduced;
Providing support for our grant requests;
Helping to transport the interdisciplinary team to some of the out-of-the-way trail locations for site analysis;
Helping to document the trail and trailhead conditions;
Reviewing the proposed action document released for public comment last spring and submitting your comments;
And a host of other efforts.
As funding gets tighter, the number of recreationists increase, and demands on the National Forest resources grow, it is important that we all work together to resolve these issues locally. If we are to develop an optimal system of motorized roads and trails while minimizing impacts to non-motorized recreation and protecting forest resources, we need to work together. I commend everyone that has participated in this travel management/route designation effort and encourage you all to continue to think creatively in developing the range of opportunities this forest has to offer.

Thanks for your continued interest and help on this project!

Steven T. Eubanks
Forest Supervisor

Progress on Completing the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS)
The interdisciplinary team has been working diligently on the DEIS and it is almost complete. It was submitted to the Pacific Southwest Regional Office for review. Based on the advice we receive from the review, we hope to have it ready for public distribution and comment later this winter.

The Draft Environmental Impact Statement will assess 3 questions:

1) Which of the unauthorized routes should be added to our existing system of roads and motorized trails and which should be closed to motorized use?
2) Should seasonal closures be placed on roads or trails to minimize damage to forest resources and what should those seasons be?
3) Are there safety concerns due to unlicensed vehicles/riders using the same roads as licensed vehicles? (Example - Youngsters riding ATVs on smoother surface roads along with passenger vehicles at higher speeds)

In the DEIS, a range of alternatives has been developed and which provide a variety of answers to the above questions. These alternatives are based on the public comments received last spring. The DEIS will also look at the effects of each alternative.

How do you want to review the DEIS?
After the DEIS is released, there will be a public comment period. The DEIS is quite large, however. Due to the cost of printing and mailing such a document, we encourage as many people as possible to review it on line. Please click on the following link below to identify how you wish to review the document and if there are elements that you would like to be sent via hard mail. If we do not get the form back from you, we will assume that you will review it on line. Please respond back by January 14, 2008.

http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/tahoe/projects_ ... sponse.php

Additional Information on the Route Designation Process
For background information on this route designation process, log onto the Tahoe National Forest website www.fs.fed.us/r5/tahoe. If you would like to be added or deleted from the Route Designation e-mail list, contact Ann Westling, awestling@fs.fed.us(530) 478-6205. If your name rejects from any mailings due to out-of-date email address or address change, your address will be deleted from the mailing list. If you have specific questions about this process, contact the following: Dave Arrasmith - ID Team Leader (530) 478-6220.

REMEMBER - click on the following link to let us know if you want to receive some of the DEIS components by the regular mail! http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/tahoe/projects_ ... sponse.php

Thanks for your interest! Happy Holidays!

Ann Westling
Tahoe National Forest
Public Affairs Officer
(530) 478-6205

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 Post subject:
PostPosted: Thu Dec 20, 2007 9:56 pm 
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Land Use EMERGENCY!

PLEASE READ AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, PASS ON!

Most people that are involved in motorized recreation, (4x4’s, ATV/MX, snowmobiles etc.) are not aware of what is happening on ALL our public lands. We are about to get hit with a TIDAL WAVE of route closures all across the United States in the form of Environmental Impact Statements.

That wave began in Eldorado National Forest, home to the Rubicon trail and many other popular OHV areas. In that one National Forest, we could be losing 1,800 miles of routes, most of them normal, dirt, graded forest roads. This means access to the forest will be severely limited. These closures will effect everyone who wants to visit a National Forest, hikers, hunters, fisherman, campers, RVs, bird watchers, Four Wheelers, ATV/MX enthusiasts etc.


That same wave just crashed in Moab, and it’s heading your way.


The biggest problem we have: Lack of funds.

The “other” side, who wants to see our trails closed forever, has hundreds of thousands of dollars in the bank. Most of which is spent in the courtroom. While we have had many victories in the Courtroom, we still have more fighting to do!!



While we spend hundreds, if not thousands on our bikes, ATV’s and rigs, the average OHV user spends NOTHING on keeping our trails open. THAT NEEDS TO CHANGE!

I am BEGGING each and every one of you to donate at least $20.00 to the Blue Ribbon Coalition. They are the national organization that fights for the rights of people who use motorized recreation. They desperately need the cash to keep our trails open on public lands in order to keep us in the fight! Believe it or not, they have won some MAJOR battles for us! Please help these unsung heros keep fighting for our acess to public lands!


https://www.sharetrails.org/secure/join_or_contribute


I know it is the holiday season. I am broke too. But it is of the utmost importance that the OHV community starts to come together and understand what we are against.

PLEASE take the time to become informed! The Friends of Eldorado National Forest will be posting bulletins on land-use issues so you can be aware. PLEASE pass those on as you get them.

Currently, THE place to get up-to-date information on route closures and land-use issues is www.pirate4x4.com/landuse While it is a 4x4 site, I encourage ALL of the OHV community to join the discussion in that forum.

PLEASE RECREATE RESPONSIBLY !!

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 Post subject: ONLY 3 DAYS LEFT TO COMMENT ON THE VERNAL SUPPLEMENTAL RMP
PostPosted: Mon Dec 31, 2007 3:25 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

ONLY 3 DAYS LEFT TO COMMENT ON THE VERNAL SUPPLEMENTAL RMP

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Vernal Field Office is currently asking for public input regarding how so-called "Lands With Wilderness Character" should be managed via a Supplement to the Vernal Field Office Draft Resource Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement (DRMP/DEIS) that was released for public review in July 2004.

The Vernal Field Office RMP/EIS presented four alternatives for managing the public lands (BLM administered lands) and their resources, and analyzed the effects of each management approach on the human environment. None of these alternatives, however, addressed managing non-WSA lands with wilderness characteristics to protect the wilderness character. Consequently, this Supplement identifies those non-WSA lands the BLM has found to possess wilderness characteristics and analyzes a fifth alternative, Alternative E, which emphasizes managing all of those lands to preserve and protect their wilderness characteristics.

The Vernal Supplemental Resource Management Plan (RMP) is available at (See links below). The comment period will conclude on January 3, 2008.

Comments may be mailed to the address listed below:

Bureau of Land Management
Vernal Field Office
RMP Comments
170 South 500 East
Vernal, UT 84078
(435) 781-4400

Comments may be emailed to the Vernal Field Office: UT_VN_RMP_Supplement@blm.gov

PLEASE, IF YOU RECREATE ON BLM LANDS WITHIN THE VERNAL FO BOUNDRIES, GET INVOLVED NOW! PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IS CRUCIAL TO KEEP RECREATION AREAS OPEN.

Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
Public Lands Policy Director
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102



To visit the BLM's Vernal Field Office Planning Website
CLICK HERE http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/vernal/planning.html

Draft Resource Management Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Statement
CLICK HERE http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/vernal/p ... p_eis.html

Supplemental Resource Management Plan
CLICK HERE http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/vernal/p ... __pdf.html

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PostPosted: Wed Jan 02, 2008 5:39 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

Only 8 Days Left to Comment on the Kanab Field Office Draft Resource Management Plan

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Kanab Field Office is currently asking for public input on a new Resource Management Plan (RMP) for approximately 600,000 acres of BLM-administered land in south-central Utah.

Just a reminder, your comments and suggestions are critical at this stage in the new RMP development. The BLM will accept public comments until January 10, 2008. The BLM will need to know what part of the preferred alternative you support and what part you oppose. In addition, the 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 draft RMP/EIS is available online (See links below). This website also contains background information about the plan.

Comments may be submitted through an electronic public comment form online at the FS website http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/kanab/planning.html. They can also be mailed to the BLM Kanab Field Office, 318 North 100 East, Kanab, UT 84741, or emailed to UT_Kanab_Comments@blm.gov.

Copies of the draft RMP/EIS are also available for public review at the Kanab and Salt Lake City public libraries, at the Utah State BLM Office and the Kanab BLM Field office. For further information or to obtain a copy of the draft RMP/EIS, please contact the Kanab Field Office at (435) 644-4600 or at the above address.

PLEASE, IF YOU RECREATE IN KANE AND GARFIELD COUNTIES, GET INVOLVED NOW! PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IS CRUCIAL TO KEEP RECREATION AREAS OPEN.

Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
Public Lands Policy Director
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102

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 Post subject: Something for everyone1
PostPosted: Sat Jan 05, 2008 10:20 pm 
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Thanks for posting up the BRC alerts, there is definitely something for everyone here. If you're not interested in the down and dirty stuff, ie, letter writing, going to meetings, contacting representatives and reading through countless volumes of rhetoric to figure out what is what...send in your twenty bucks!! Yup, that's right, it's only twenty bucks to join the BlueRibbon Coalition. www.sharetrails.org

Nowadays you put more money into your lawn mower gas tank than that, so buck up and get involved even if it's just sending in the cash!

Image

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Life Member BlueRibbon Coalition
Motherlode Rockcrawlers
CA4WDC
www.staciealbright.com

www.offroadandoutdoors.blogspot.com


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 Post subject: LAST CHANCE TO COMMENT ON FACTORY BUTTE/CAINEVILLE
PostPosted: Wed Jan 23, 2008 2:32 pm 
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BRC ACTION ALERT



Dear BRC Utah Action Alert Subscriber,

The Bureau of Land Management in Utah is Ground Zero for several epic land use battles that could close tens of millions of acres of BLM lands across the West.
One key battle is whether or not the BLM can create millions of acres of NEW Wilderness Study Areas across the West.

Another key battle is over large OHV "open" areas, such as Factory Butte/Caineville.
Several Utah Counties have put together a "compromise" proposal to the BLM that would re-open the area and put reasonable boundaries and restrictions on the OHV activities. BRC supports the county proposal.

Fortunately for you, dear BRC Action Alert subscriber, making effective comments on both of these battleground issues is extremely easy. There are five simple comments below that you need to make. Simply cut and paste these into an email and click send.

As always, if you have any questions or need any help, please call.
Brian Hawthorne 208-237-1008 ext 102
Ric Foster 208-237-1008 ext 107
BlueRibbon Coalition Public Lands Department

SITUATION:
Utah BLM's Richfield Field Office is proposing to designate somewhere in the neighborhood of one million acres of new Wilderness Study Areas. "Isn't that illegal?" You ask? Yes, it is, but BLM says it's legal because these WSAs aren't "WSAs," they are actually "Non-WSA lands with wilderness characteristics." But you asks; "aren't they managed the same as WSAs?" Exactly!

Also, several Utah Counties have proposed a "compromise" plan for the Factory Butte/Caineville area that makes a lot of sense. Comments are needed in support of their proposal.

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO:
Send the BLM a quick email with the four comments below.
Send your email comment letter to:

Bureau of Land Management
Richfield Field Office
150 East 900 North
Richfield, Utah 84701
(435)896-1500

Email: UT_Richfield_Comments@blm.gov

IMPORTANT: Put "Comments on Richfield DRMP" in the subject line and be certain to include your name and address. A return email address is NOT sufficient! (BLM often discards "anonymous" email comments.)

Dear Richfield BLM,

I would like to make the following comments on the Richfield Field Office RMP/Travel Plan EIS:

1) I believe the BLM is establishing new WSAs without the authority to do so. Calling a new WSA by a different name does not make it legal.

2) Please disclose the difference in management prescriptions between "non WSA lands with wilderness characteristics" and WSAs in the FEIS.

3) The 1999 inventory found lands that contain extensive OHV trails to have "wilderness characteristics." If the presence of OHV use did not impact the presence or absence of "wilderness characteristics," then by what rationale is the BLM proposing to significantly reduce OHV trails in these areas?

4) The SEIS is utilizing the Utah BLM 1999 statewide wilderness re-inventory. This inventory was based on criteria that were not available for public comment and review. As an OHV user who will be directly affected by your decision, regulations say I should have a chance to review and comment on such criteria.

5) I support Alternative "A" in the DEIS, but I also strongly support the county proposed "compromise" proposal for the Factory Butte SRMA.

YOUR NAME
YOUR ADDRESS


MORE INFO ON THE WEB:

BRC's Utah RMP Website:
http://www.sharetrails.org/public_lands ... MoabUpdate

Richfield BLM Website:
http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/richfiel ... p_eis.html

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PostPosted: Mon Feb 04, 2008 10:59 am 
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BRC Land Use Advisory
Trails in Trouble Video Available

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

Chris Horgan, the driving force behind Stewards of the Sequoia ( http://stewardsofthesequoia.org/ ),or http://www.peopleforwesternheritage.com/PFWHVideos.htm has just completed a Video designed to be used by OHV clubs and individuals.

Horgan envisions thousands of OHV enthusiasts across the U.S. playing the video for local elected officials, land managers and especially Congressman, Senators and their staff.

Included with the DVD are detailed instructions on how to find and present the DVD to law makers in your area. Horgan even includes step-by-step instructions and some really good tips and pointers about how to make the most of this exceptional video.

This sort of project is highly effective and highly recommended. The video is only $9.95 and is available on Horgan's new website: http://www.trailsintrouble.org/

And while you are there placing your order, don't forget to click the "Information for Lawmakers" link toward the top left of the webpage. Said in the voice of Monte Burns, of "The Simpsons".... Eeeeeexelent! Well done Chris!!

Please take a minute and visit the website and order your copy of the video today!

Brian Hawthorne
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102

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 Post subject:
PostPosted: Wed Feb 06, 2008 9:07 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

Attention New Mexico Recreationists!

The Cibola National Forest has just released their Environmental Assessment (EA) for Travel Management on the Sandia Ranger District for public review and comment. The purpose of the 30-day comment period is to allow the public an opportunity to provide early and meaningful participation on a proposed action prior to a decision being made by the Responsible Official. Those providing comments during this comment period will be eligible to appeal the decision under appeal regulations.

During the comment period, the Forest Service (FS) will conduct two open houses. (See Schedule below) These meetings will be an opportunity for the public to meet with the Interdisciplinary (ID) Team and Nancy Rose, the deciding officer, to ask questions about the analysis and provide comments. The meeting will begin with a short presentation on the alternatives at 6:00 PM, followed by the open house.

Wednesday, February 20, 2008 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Roosevelt Middle School cafeteria
11799 State Highway 14S
Tijeras, NM

Thursday, February 21, 2008 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
University of New Mexico
Continuing Education Conference Center (North Building), Rooms B and C
1634 University Blvd NE (just east of Indian School)
Albuquerque, NM

This project's Proposed Action will designate a motorized road and trail system that provides for public access and motorized recreation travel on the Sandia District. Designation will include class of vehicle, including ATVs and motorcycles, and time of year for motor vehicle use. The decision will result in the publication of a Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). After the MVUM has been released, travel off the designated system will be prohibited unless authorized by permit.

The Environmental Assessment for Travel Management on the Sandia Ranger District is available from the Cibola National Forest Supervisor's Office at the address below or on the Sandia Ranger District Travel Management web site: www.fs.fed.us/r3/cibola/travel-manageme ... ndex.shtml

Additional information regarding this project can be obtained from: Nancy Brunswick, Travel Management Project Leader, Cibola National Forest, 2113 Osuna Road, NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113, or by phone at 505-346-3900.

How To Comment
Written, facsimile, hand delivered, oral, and electronic comments concerning this Proposed Action will be accepted for 30 calendar days.

The comment deadline is February 28, 2008

Comments received in response to this solicitation, including name and addresses of those who comment, will be considered part of the public record on this Proposed Action and will be available for public inspection. Comments submitted anonymously will be accepted and considered; however, those who submit anonymous comments will not have standing to appeal the subsequent decision.

Written and electronic comments on the proposed action must be submitted to the Responsible Official:

Nancy Rose
Cibola National Forest
2113 Osuna Road, NE
Albuquerque, NM 87113
505-346-3900 phone
505-346-3901 FAX

Comments may be submitted by email in word (.doc), rich text format (.rtf), text (.txt), and hypertext markup language (.html) to comments-southwestern-cibola@fs.fed.us

The Cibola Forest Supervisor's office business hours for those submitting hand-delivered or oral comments are Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:45 pm, excluding federal holidays. Oral comments must be provided during normal business hours by phone or in person, or during an official public meeting. Those wishing to provide oral comments should contact the Responsible Official or their representative.

Electronic comments must be submitted in a format such as an email message, or in plain text (.txt), rich text (.rtf) or word (.doc) format. In cases where no identifiable name is attached to an electronic message, a verification of identity will be required for appeal eligibility, such as in the form of a scanned signature (36 CFR 215.6). To be eligible for appeal, each individual or representative from each organization submitting comments must either sign the comments or verify identity upon request.

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,

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PostPosted: Fri Feb 08, 2008 2:44 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!

UTAH ENVIRO-GROUPS PRESSURING LAWMAKERS TO VOTE AGAINST UTAH LEGISLATION THAT PROTECTS ACCESS TO PUBLIC LANDS!!

LET YOUR REPRESENTATIVE KNOW YOU SUPPORT PUBLIC ACCESS TO PUBLIC LANDS

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

We just received word from John Borg, a member of the Utah OHV Advisory Council, asking for your help in supporting the Utah Legislature's House Joint Resolution (HJR010). See below for details.

We've pasted John's email below. Please take action today!

Thanks,
Ric Foster
Public Lands Department Manager
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 107

______________________________________________________



This session of the Utah Legislature includes a House Joint Resolution (HJR010) which:

1) Urges (the US) Congress not to enact federal legislation designating additional "wilderness" on public lands within Utah without the unanimous support of Utah's congressional delegation;

2) Urges the United States Bureau of Land Management not to restrict access to existing public lands in Utah under its jurisdiction through so-called "wilderness characteristics" options in resource management plans; and

3) Reaffirms the Legislature's strong support for continued public access and multiple use regarding public lands.

An amended version of this resolution was favorably recommended by committee vote on Wednesday, and is moving ahead.

Naturally, the Utah Chapter of the Sierra Club is not happy about the State wanting a say in management of lands within Utah, and is telling their followers to speak out against HJR010. See: http://www.utah.sierraclub.org/tracker/hjr10.html

YOU can counter their efforts by contacting your State representative and telling them you "SUPPORT HJR 10". To get your representatives contact information or find out who your representative is, see: http://le.utah.gov/maps/amap.html

For HJR010 status, bill text, etc., see: http://le.utah.gov/~2008/htmdoc/hbillhtm/hjr010.htm

When sending email, include you real name, street address, and phone number so you can be confirmed as a constituent.

Thanks...

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 Post subject: ALERT STATUS: HIGH IMPORTANCE
PostPosted: Wed Feb 13, 2008 3:12 pm 
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BRC IDAHO ACTION ALERT
ALERT STATUS: HIGH IMPORTANCE
ACTION ITEM INCLUDED

Forest Service Releases Draft Rule Based on State of Idaho's Proposal for Future Management of Roadless Areas in Idaho; Public Invited to Comment

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

The U.S. Forest Service is currently in the process of adopting the State of Idaho's Petition for the management of Idaho's Roadless Areas. The FS has prepared a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) based on the Idaho petition submitted to the Forest Service one year ago, first tendered by then-Governor James Risch and endorsed by Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter.

The DEIS reflects the petition that then-Governor Risch submitted to the Roadless Area Conservation National Advisory Committee (RACNAC) on November 29, 2006. As you know, BRC's Adena Cook is a member of the RACNAC. The Committee reviewed the State of Idaho's petition and recommended that the U.S. Department of Agriculture proceed with a proposed rule for public comment. Governor Otter has continued the state's support of the petition and been involved in crafting the proposed rule and DEIS.

The proposed rule was published in the Federal Register on January 7, 2008. A 90-day comment period on the proposed rule will end on April 7, 2008. The Forest Service has scheduled public meetings to present the proposed rule and its effects and accept public comments.

IMPORTANT: This is not an "open house" format that we usually see from the agencies. This is one of those rare "Public Hearing" type format where the public will have opportunity to give oral, recorded comments.

This places a dual responsibility on Idaho's recreationists. We will have to show up at the meetings with colors flying as well as send written (email) comments to the agency. BRC has developed a few comment suggestions below, but the number one most important information to provide is specific information about mountain bike, snowmobile and rubber-tired trails and areas within each Roadless Area.

Please read the info below and put those email and phone trees in full gear. We need maximum participation on this important issue.

As always, if you have any questions or need additional info please call.

Brian Hawthorne and Ric Foster
Public Lands Department
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 107

BRC IDAHO ROADLESS ACTION ALERT

SITUATION:
The U.S. Forest Service is currently in the process of adopting the State of Idaho's Petition for the management of Idaho's Roadless Areas. The FS has prepared a draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) based on the Idaho petition submitted to the Forest Service one year ago. A 90-day comment period on the proposed rule will end on April 7, 2008. The Forest Service will schedule public meetings to present the proposed rule and its effects and accept public comments.

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO:
Attend a public meeting and send written comments. BRC has developed a few comment suggestions below, but the number one most important information to provide is specific information about mountain bike, snowmobile and rubber-tired trails and areas within each Roadless Area.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The agency is saying that the Idaho Petition will not affect recreation. That's one of those agency things that is absolutely true and absolutely false at the same time. Comments on recreation ARE needed!

For more information contact:
David Hensley - State of Idaho (208) 334-2100; Brad Gilbert - USFS (208) 765-7438; Andy Brunelle - USFS (208) 334-1700

Information on the proposed rule and draft EIS is available at http://roadless.fs.fed.us/idaho.shtml.

IDAHO ROADLESS MEETING SCHEDULE:

Mackay
Thursday, February 14, 2007 7:00 PM
Mackay City Hall
203 S. Main Street
Mackay, ID 83251

Idaho Falls
Wednesday, February 20, 2007 6:00 PM
Shilo Inn, Grand Teton Room
780 Lindsey Blvd
Idaho Falls, ID 83401

Pocatello
Thursday, February 21, 2007 6:00 PM
Holiday Inn
399 Bench Road
Pocatello, ID 83201

Cascade
Monday, February 25, 2007 7:00 PM
Valley County Courthouse
219 N. Main Street
Cascade, ID 83611

Council
Tuesday, February 26, 2007 7:00 PM
Adams County Courthouse
201 Industrial Ave
Council, ID 83612

Twin Falls
Wednesday, February 27, 2007 7:00 PM
Twin Falls City Council Chambers
305 3rd Avenue East
Twin Falls, ID 83301

Boise
Thursday, February 28, 2007 7:00 PM
Boise City Hall
150 N Capitol Blvd
Boise, ID 83702

WRITTEN COMMENTS:
Comments due April 7, 2008

Send to: IDcomments@fsroadless.org
Roadless Area Conservation-Idaho
P.O. Box 162909
Sacramento, CA 95816-2909; Fax: 916-456-6724

Talking points for the Draft Idaho Roadless Rule and EIS

1. Support the Rule process and commit to participating in the process.

2. An Idaho Rule will achieve:


Certainty for the management of our roadless lands; they can no longer be subjected to a top down one size fits all fiat


It establishes the size and boundaries of roadless lands in a federal rule. These can't be changed unless by another rule.


"Roadless" definitions can't be changed.


It protects the backcountry and primitive character of roadless areas that we all enjoy, yet acknowledges that motorized recreation can and does occur throughout, stating, "Neither the 2001 Roadless Rule nor the Idaho Roadless Rule provides direction on where and when OHV use would be permissible in roadless areas, therefore, there would be no effect on current OHV use in Idaho Roadless Areas."

3. It is a draft, and could be improved.


The DEIS and draft rule fail to state the types of recreation that could occur in the various theme areas as was specified in the Petition.


The Petition stated for Wildlands Recreation, "preserves currently existing routes and class of vehicle, further limitations subject to NF travel planning." and for Primitive, "a variety of motorized and non-motorized recreation opportunities exist. Campsites may be visible at popular destinations and major trail heads or junctions. Recreation sites accommodate moderate use. Restricted to snowmobiles and motorized vehicles less than 50 inches, change in class of vehicle and designation of new routes is permissible subject to NF travel planning."


Description for these themes in the DEIS give the impression that Wildlands Recreation and Primitive themes favor non-motorized management.


Motorized recreation occurs in these themes. In the Primitive theme, use is quite extensive, occurring in 43% of the areas. Here is a list:

Danskins Wilson Peak Cuddy Mountain
House Mountain Deadwood Rapid River
Rainbow Peace Rock Hells Canyon
Sheep Creek Red Mountain Patrick Butte
Lime Creek Bear Wallow East Meadow Creek
Steel Mountain Snowbank North Lochsa Slope
Ten Mile Needles Meade Peak
Smoky Mountains Council Mountain

Inclusion of this information in the DEIS and rule will give clarifying direction to land managers as they exercise their discretionary authority.
Comments due April 7, 2008
Send to: IDcomments@fsroadless.org
Roadless Area Conservation-Idaho
P.O. Box 162909
Sacramento, CA 95816-2909; Fax: 916-456-6724

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PostPosted: Wed Feb 13, 2008 9:14 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

SAN JUAN PUBLIC LANDS CENTER TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETINGS ON DRAFT PLAN REVISION

The San Juan Public Lands Center released their Draft Land Management Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) on December 14, 2007 for a 90-day comment period. The Forest Service (FS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will host a series of public meetings during February and March to present and discuss the Plan Revision. A schedule of meeting dates, times, and locations is listed below as well as topics for each meeting.

San Juan Plan Revision - Schedule of Upcoming Public Meetings

Tuesday, February 19, 2008 6:30- - 8:30 pm
Silverton Town Hall
1360 Greene Street
Silverton, CO
Topics: Overview of DLMP/DEIS and winter recreation

Thursday, February 21, 2008 6:30- - 8:30 pm
Fort Lewis College, FLC Ballroom
Durango, CO
Topics: Inventoried Roadless Areas, Wilderness and Wild and Scenic River Recommendations

Wednesday, February 27, 2008 10 am--noon
San Miguel Commissioners
Norwood, CO
Topics: Overview of DLMP/DEIS; Gunnison Sage Grouse, Oil and Gas leasing and Uranium Mining

Thursday, February 28, 2008 6:30- - 8:30 pm
Cortez Conference Center
2121 East Main
Cortez, CO
Topics: Suitable motorized recreation areas; and wildlife and livestock grazing forage

Tuesday, March 4, 2008 6:30- - 8:30 pm
Pagosa Springs Community Center
Pagosa Springs, CO
Topics: Suitable motorized recreation areas, oil and gas leasing, & focus on management areas around Pagosa

Wednesday, March 5, 2008 6:30- - 8:30 pm
South Fork Community Center
South Fork, CO
Topics: Overview of DLMP/DEIS and winter recreation

Monday, March 10, 2008 6:30- - 8:30 pm
Fort Lewis College
1000 Rim Drive
Durango, CO
Topics: Suitable motorized recreation areas, oil and gas leasing and livestock and wildlife forage

Please visit the website for any last minute changes to meeting dates http://ocs.fortlewis.edu/forestPlanor call (970) 385-1229

Comments may be submitted using one of the following methods:

Via Website at: http://ocs.fortlewis.edu/forestPlan

By FAX to: 916-456-6724

By mail to:
San Juan Plan Revision
P.O. Box 162909
Sacramento, CA 95816-2909


For additional information, contact Thurman Wilson at (970) 385-1246 or Shannon Manfredi at (970) 385-1229. The Draft Land Management Plan and DEIS are available for review on the plan revision website at http://ocs.fortlewis.edu/forestPlan, or contact the San Juan Public Lands Center for a compact disk, or printed copy.

San Juan Public Lands Center
15 Burnett Court
Durango, CO 81301
Ph (970) 247-4874
Fax (970) 385-1243

PLEASE, IF YOU RECREATE ON PUBLIC LANDS IN COLORADO, GET INVOLVED NOW!

Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
Public Lands Policy Director
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 107

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 Post subject: OHV HEARING IN WASHINGTON D.C.
PostPosted: Tue Mar 11, 2008 8:14 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!

ANTI OHV HEARING IN WASHINGTON D.C. COULD BE OPPORTUNITY FOR POSITIVE ACTION

ACTION ITEM REQUESTED

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

This Thursday, March 13, the House Natural Resources Committee, Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands has scheduled a hearing on the impacts of unmanaged off-highway vehicles on federal lands.

Although as of this writing no witness list had been posted on the Subcommittee's website, both BRC Executive Director, Greg Mumm, and our Western Regional Representative, Don Amador, have been in contact with Subcommittee staff. Pending any last minute changes, the witness list will include representatives from the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, as well as a sheriff from New Mexico, a doctor from Children's Mercy Hospital, a Tribal representative and a retired Game and Fish officer.

Also testifying will be Ken Rosevear, American Sand Association (ASA), and Russ Ehnes, National Off Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC).

More info on the hearing can be found on the web, including a link to view the hearing live via internet: CLICK HERE

The hearing appears to be designed to bring both Congressional scrutiny and another round of bad press (here we go again), again vilifying the tens of millions of OHV users.

But it is also an opportunity to let your Congressional representatives know how important OHV use is to you and your family, and to bring Congress's attention to the fact that they have not funded recreation commensurate to its importance to the American people. So we are asking our members to send email to the House subcommittee.

We've put together some very simple instructions below for a "cut and paste" email, including suggested comments from both BRC and from Larry Smith at Americans for Responsible Recreational Access (ARRA). Follow the simple instructions and send your email today.

Come Thursday morning, I imagine we'll be reading in the newspapers how eeeeevil OHV users are. Please know that BRC and other national OHV groups talk to the media often, it's just that most of them are biased against OHV users and rarely print what we say.

Thanks in advance for your action.

Brian Hawthorne
Ric Foster
BRC's Public Lands Department
(208) 237-1008 ext 107

PS: BRC will be submitting formal written testimony as well as attending in person. But your emails will make a difference. Please take a minute and use our step-by-step instructions.

______________________________________

Easy Step-by-Step instructions on how to send your comments to the House Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands for the hearing on the impacts of OHV recreation on Federal Lands:

NOTE: Your email will be considered Congressional Testimony. You must be polite and scrupulously accurate and factual.

STEP 1: Open your email program and start a draft email. Address it to david.watkins@mail.house.govand casey.hammond@mail.house.gov. Also, please cc to BRC at brlandsinfo@sharetrails.org.

STEP 2: Cut and paste the following comments in to your email:

I understand that OHV use should be managed, but I want to be clear that wholesale closure does not equal effective management.

OHV recreation is a legitimate use of federal lands, and has been recognized as such by federal land managers.

OHV recreation can be managed and sustainable, while also providing a valuable recreational experience for OHV enthusiasts.

Motorized recreation is a family activity that offers an opportunity for parents and children to experience all that our public lands have to offer in a unique manner.

The U.S. Forest Service has identified "unmanaged" recreation as one of four key threats to forest lands. If unmanaged recreation is such a top threat, then why won't the agency put recreation management as a top priority in their budget?

The Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management both indicated that partnering with local constituents through effective volunteer programs is essential to long-term success, yet very little to that end is taking place on the ground. When OHV users ask "can we help," all too often the answer is "no."

Education and enforcement, including useful maps and signage, are crucial elements to resolving OHV issues, and yet the agencies have not made any of these components a priority in their efforts to move to actively managed OHV recreation.

STEP 3: Take just a minute to add a bit about where you live and where you like to ride. Be certain to include your name and address. A return email address is NOT sufficient! ("anonymous" emails are often discarded) Then click "send" and you're done!

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PostPosted: Wed Mar 19, 2008 3:24 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

H.R.5610 Would Designate Five New Wilderness Areas

A Washington D.C. based natural resource news service, Environment & Energy Publishing (www.eenews.net), today reported that five House Democrats introduced legislation that would designate five new Wilderness areas in Arizona, California, New Mexico, Oregon and West Virginia. According to E&E's report, the legislation (H.R. 5610) was introduced by House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Nick Rahall of West Virginia and Reps. Jim Costa of California, Peter DeFazio of Oregon, Raï¾£l Grijalva of Arizona and Tom Udall of New Mexico.

The bill would designate just about 500,000 acres of Wilderness in West Virginia, Arizona's Tumacacori Highlands; the Redwood Mountain Grove in California's Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park; the Sabinoso Wilderness in New Mexico; Oregon's Copper Salmon area and the South Fork of the San Jacinto River Canyon in Riverside County, California. E&E's report says the Wilderness proposals are also included in separate measures.

This is an important reminder of how important the 2008 election season will be to mountain bikers, OHV users and others who value access and recreation on our public lands. If you have not done so already, please register to vote and please let your local political representatives know how important OHV use is to your family.

Ric Foster
Public Lands Department Manager
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 107

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PostPosted: Wed Jun 18, 2008 7:55 pm 
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BRC ACTION ALERT
IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUESTED

"The Forest Service refuses funds to fix the 'bad apples,' then kicks out the 'good guys' who got the funds! That's not management, that's just stupid!"
Brian Hawthorne, BlueRibbon Coalition

Dear BRC Members, Supporters and Action Alert Subscribers,

As you know, "form letter" comments are rarely effective in moving a travel plan proposal. But there are exceptions.

There are situations where many "form letters" from concerned citizens can help keep trails open, especially where the agency has been heavy handed with OHV people.

The Holly Springs National Forest in Mississippi has been particularly heavy handed - WE NEED YOUR HELP.

Please read the brief SITUATION below. I'll wager that you will be as outraged as I am, and find this situation worthy of the few minutes it will take to send an email to the Forest Service. Simple instructions on how to send a letter are below.

I certainly hope you don't find this story typical. If you have a similar story to tell, please send us your story, and include as many specifics as possible. Maybe we can help.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact BRC.

Thanks in advance for your support,
Brian Hawthorne
Public Lands Policy Director
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 102

Ric Foster
Public Lands Dept. Manager
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 107


SITUATION:
Although almost all of Mississippi's Holly Springs National Forest is closed to motorized use, there is a small area near Chewalla Lake that is home to a modest dirt bike trail system. The trails have been in existence for a long time, some 25 years or more, and the Forest Service knew all about them.

After listening to the Forest Service continually complain about "off-trail" use (and lack of funding), the Memphis Motorcycle Club (MMC) applied for OHV Grant funds to build fencing, post signs and otherwise try to improve the "unmanaged" OHV use around Chewalla Lake. And sure enough, in full cooperation and coordination with the Forest Service, they got the funds.

Guess what happened next? The Forest Service refused to accept the funds! The RTP program was prepared to hand them $14 thousand to help stop what the Forest Service themselves said was a big problem -- and the Forest Service refused the money.

But that's not all. Not long after saying "no thanks" to $14 grand, the bureaucratic masterminds over at the Holly Springs NF tell the MMC guys that all of their trails have to be closed. Sorry, they say, no exceptions. But don't worry, they quickly add, they'll build a totally new, environmentally sustainable trail system soon! (At a cost of at least $22,000.00 per mile!).

No, really. They said that. It's on page 11 of the National Forests in Mississippi Travel Plan Environmental Assessment. (http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/mississippi/travel/index.shtml).

Allow me to go over that again, just so we are all clear. The super-geniuses at the HSNF refuse funds to fix a problem they identified, allowing the problem to continue, and then they close all of the trails used by the folks that got them the funds to fix the problem. And they actually expect us to believe that 'it's all good' because they'll be building totally NEW trails -- starting at $22 grand per mile.

If this weren't wrong on so many levels, it would be funny.

BRC is working with the Memphis Motorcycle Club and the American Motorcyclist Association to bring some oversight to this bureaucratic bungling. We are preparing solid grounds to challenge any permanent closure of the trails on the Holly Springs NF. Your letter, even a quick cut and paste form letter, will help!


WHAT YOU NEED TO DO:
Please send an email to the National Forests in Mississippi (NFIM). Use the comment suggestions below. Be sure to add a bit of personal information.

If you want, you can use BRC's letter generator. http://www.sharetrails.org/letters/letter.php?id=13. It has an easy interface for adding additional comments and sending your letter.

And YES! You can contribute to a Holly Springs defense fund. Go to http://www.sharetrails.org/fwd/holly-springs-fund. This link will re-direct you to our secure join/contribute page and will automatically fill out what your contribution is for.

INSTRUCTIONS:
Be polite. Be Professional. Be on time. (The comment deadline is Monday, June 23, 2008)

* Address your email to: pfsweeney@fs.fed.us

* In the Subject Line of your email, please put: "Comments on NFIM Travel Management EA"

* Paste in the name and address:
Paul Sweeney
Mississippi Route Designation, c/o ACT2
Enterprise Unit,
837 Clermont; Antigo, WI 54409

* It's always good to include a brief paragraph about how much you and your family enjoy motorized use on National Forest lands.

* Use the comment suggestions below in your email:

COMMENT:
The Holly Springs National Forest offers excellent motorized recreation opportunities. The Chewalla Lake area has had a motorized trail-based recreational niche for many decades. The agency has acknowledged that the demand for OHV riding opportunities on National Forests in Mississippi has increased dramatically in recent years. It therefore seems only appropriate that the agency consider at least one Alternative that addresses the need for increased OHV trails and reflects the motorized niche near the Chewalla Lake area.

COMMENT:
The motorized recreating public will not accept budgetary constraints as an excuse for route closures. Ironically, it is the motorized user community that has been successful in securing substantial funds for OHV management in the U.S.F.S. Southern Region. There are several grant and volunteer programs available, and the OHV community is committed to help provide the tools to address legitimate concerns about route maintenance. Therefore, my comment is that you address any legitimate maintenance concerns by incorporating a training protocol into your travel plan that would train agency staff on how to apply for grants, use the challenge cost share program, effectively manage volunteer programs, and learn about and apply for other funding sources. In addition, you might consider MOUs or other similar agreements with recreational groups, such as the Memphis Motorcycle Club.

COMMENT:
The extensive comments made by OHV users early in the process clearly show a need to consider the user-created trail system near Chewalla Lake. The agency is directed to consider a wide range of Alternatives that respond to issues and concerns brought to the agency by the public, especially those who will be directly affected by the decision. I simply cannot accept the process proceeding on its current course. I believe it is incumbent on the agency to formulate at least one Alternative that includes some sort of motorized trail system near Chewalla Lake.

COMMENT:
The NFIM Travel Plan EA errs in refusing to even consider one of the user-created trails in the Chewalla Lake area. This approach is not consistent with the spirit, if not the letter, of the agency's Travel Management Rule. In addressing a comment regarding treatment of "user-created routes," the agency stated, "[s]ome user-created routes are well-sited, provide excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation by motorized and nonmotorized users alike, involve less environmental impact than unrestricted cross-country motor vehicle use, and would enhance the system of designated routes and areas."

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PostPosted: Wed Jul 30, 2008 10:20 pm 
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BRC National Legislative Action Alert
IS THIS BRC'S MOST IMPORTANT ACTION ALERT FOR 2008?

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

Everyone at BRC has been talking about this Action Alert, and we think this may be the most important Action Alert BRC has blasted out all year.

BRC staff members, including our Executive Director, Greg Mumm, our General Counsel, Paul Turcke, and our Senior Policy Advisor, Adena Cook, have been in Washington DC quite often in recent months. That's because the anti-recreation lobby has been very active!

Greg has submitted written testimony in a House Subcommittee hearing on OHV use, and last month he testified in person at a Senate Subcommittee. http://www.sharetrails.org/magazine/article.php?id=1607 BRC has also been involved in a new General Accounting Office (GAO) study on OHV use.

TWO Congressional hearings and a GAO study on OHV use?? It doesn't require any clairvoyance to realize that the anti-recreation zealots are setting the stage for a very aggressive legislative and regulatory strategy for 2009.

I can't over emphasize the importance of responding to this Alert. Given the aggressive agenda the anti-recreation zealots have for us after this election cycle, it is absolutely critical our members take action today! Your national, state and local legislators need to know that you and your family value OHV recreation and you are paying attention to what they are doing!

Below is a legislative Action Alert we've formulated in the "cut and paste email" style. It concerns both state and national issues, so it is an excellent opportunity for ALL BRC members and supporters to make their voices heard at a critical time.

Please take just a minute and follow the instructions below. We put together some very easy step by step instructions so it won't be difficult or take a lot of time.

Thank you in advance for your prompt response. As always, if you have any questions or comments, please contact us.


Brian Hawthorne
(208) 237-1008 ext 102
Ric Foster
(208) 237-1008 ext 107

PS: Please also forward this to your friends, family, neighbors and your riding buddies. Please also alert your local OHV club and let them know that BRC is available to help submit formal testimony on these important bills.


BRC ACTION ALERT
ANTI-RECREATION LEGISLATION MOVING QUICKLY IN CONGRESS

SITUATION:
This alert concerns a passel of bills currently pending in Congress. Most of the bills we are concerned about have been thrown into an "Omnibus" package of over 90 separate pieces of legislation. Last May, President Bush signed a similar "Omnibus" package of 61 bills. This go-round, the package includes bills that could not pass on their own, like the "Owyhee Initiative." It also includes dangerous legislation such as the National Landscape Conservation System Act, which would formally establish a Clinton/Gore administrative fiat established by Bruce Babbitt.

This could be the most important Action Alert BRC has blasted this year.


INSTRUCTIONS ON SENDING COMMENTS TO YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

1. Go to BRC's Rapid Response Center at http://www.sharetrails.org/rapid_response/, type in your zip code and click GO.

2. Under "Write Your Elected Officials," click on the "Federal" link.

3. Follow the instructions under "Compose Your Own Letter"

4. Copy and paste "Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2008" into the "subject" box.

5. Copy and paste comments into the "editable text" section of the form. You do not need to put "Dear Whomever" as part of your comments because the system will do it for you.

6. Click the "Send Message" button.



COMMENTS:

My family and I value recreation and access to state and federally managed "public lands" across America. As such, we are extremely concerned about several pending pieces of legislation, including the package of Senate and House bills known as The Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2008.

I strongly oppose combining many of these so-called "land bills" into one "Omnibus" package. Doing so eliminates careful review and allows special interest groups with large powerful lobbies in Washington DC to outweigh the voice of individual citizens, such as myself, who regularly visit and enjoy our public lands.

I am also very concerned about how specific bills contained within the Omnibus package will eventually eliminate public access to public lands. Specifically, the National Landscape Conservation System (S. 1139 & H.R. 2016), the Prehistoric Trackways National Monument (S. 275) and the Owyhee Public Land Management Act of 2008 (S. 2833).

All of these controversial bills will result in loss of public access to millions of acres of public lands across the West. Lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management lands are not National Parks, and should not be managed as though they were. All of these bills give too much latitude to BLM managers to close public access and reduce recreation. History has proven that if given the latitude, federal bureaucrats usually take the latitude. In these times of tight budgets, proper management and public access often loses out.

Another bill that I am concerned about is the Eastern Sierra and Northern San Gabriel Wild Heritage Act (HR 6156 and S 3069). Although this bill is not included in the Omnibus package, it contains lands that are not suitable for Wilderness. It would close many popular snowmobile areas, mountain bike trails and 4x4 roads.

Over 40 years ago, when the Wilderness Act was passed (1964), rampant development of America's wildlands and backcountry was a real threat. The Wilderness Act was passed into law years prior to the passage of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and a myriad of other environmental protection laws. As Congress passed laws to protect the environment, and recreation on public lands became more and more important to the American public, the preferred method to "protect" the land, Wilderness, got stuck in the 1960s.

Wilderness designations are out of touch with modern day realities. Public lands are now important recreation venues for mountain bikers, snowmobilers and Off-Highway Vehicle users, all of which are banned in Wilderness. Unfortunately the Wilderness lobby refuses to acknowledge the fact that other alternatives, including National Recreation Areas (NRA) or National Conservation Areas (NCA), provide the exact same level of protection from development that Wilderness carries.

I am asking you to OPPOSE the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2008 (S 3213), OPPOSE the National Landscape Conservation System (S. 1139 & H.R. 2016), OPPOSE the Prehistoric Trackways National Monument (S. 275), OPPOSE the Owyhee Public Land Management Act of 2008 (S. 2833) and OPPOSE the Eastern Sierra and Northern San Gabriel Wild Heritage Act (HR 6156 and S 3069).

As someone who values recreational access, I am asking you to SUPPORT alternatives that do not restrict the public's ability to view and enjoy our nation's public lands.

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PostPosted: Mon Aug 04, 2008 2:26 pm 
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BLM Releases Moab Field Office Proposed RMP for Public Review

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

The Moab Field Office released their Proposed Resource Management Plan (RMP) and Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) last Friday. The documents and maps are here: http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/moab/pla ... p_eis.html.

To answer your questions... we don't know! We just finished downloading all of the info this morning, so we haven't looked at what has changed since the Draft Plan and this Proposed Plan.

Clif Koontz from Ride with Respect (RwR) was looking over the information and sent us an email saying the BLM has some "interesting" proposals!! Clif has been doing yeoman's work on this plan, by the way, and BRC really appreciates what RwR does. (You can join and support the work RwR does here: http://www.ridewithrespect.org/supp27.php).

Based on some of Clif's comments, there are some poison pills in the Proposed Plan. It is likely it will need to be altered before it is signed into effect. The window of opportunity for action is short, so we'll be updating you soon.

The Moab BLM, to their credit, has posted detailed maps on the Proposed Pplan and the other Alternatives. To look at what the BLM wants to do, scroll down to Map 2-11-C Designated Routes-Proposed Plan (ALT C) and Map 2-11-E (C) Designated Motorcycle Routes-Proposed Plan (ALT C MOTORCYCLE ROUTES). Also important to read is Appendix E Moab Field Office Recreation Rules and Appendix F, Special Recreation Management Areas: Goals, Settings, Outcomes/Management Prescriptions.

Take a quick look and if you have any concerns or comments, let us know.

Thanks for your attention,

Brian Hawthorne Ric Foster
208-237-1008 ext 102 208-237-1008 ext 107

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PostPosted: Thu Mar 05, 2009 7:50 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

Stanislaus National Forest Motorized Travel Management DEIS Available

The Stanislaus National Forest, located in west central California, has announced the release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Motorized Travel Management Project. The goal is to develop a sustainable system of routes that provide an array of opportunities for access and recreation on National Forest lands, as well as protection of various resources by curtailing motorized cross-country travel.

A 60-day public comment period is expected to start on March 6, 2009, and end on May 5, 2009. The purpose of the comment period is to give the public an opportunity to provide early and meaningful participation on the proposed action prior to the project decision being made.

The DEIS displays five different alternatives, each of which includes a distinct system of motorized routes and addresses the following components:

Prohibition of cross-country travel
Additions to the National Forest Transportation System (NFTS) including specified vehicle class and season of use
Changes to the existing NFTS in terms of vehicle class, season of use and wheeled over snow use
Compact Discs containing the DEIS documents, resource reports, supporting documents and maps are available by request. The DEIS is also available for review at the Forest Supervisor's Office, 19777 Greenley Road, Sonora, CA 95370, or online at http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/projects/ohv.

A Final Environmental Impact Statement and decision by Forest Supervisor Susan Skalski are expected this summer, with a Motor Vehicle Use Map scheduled for release by the end of 2009.

In order to help the public understand the DEIS, the Forest Service will hold a series of public meetings over the next few weeks. Meetings will include optional time for learning how to use the DEIS, maps and compact disc; browsing maps; and asking questions. They are scheduled as follows:

Community
Date
Location

Arnold


Wednesday, March 11, 2009
4:00 pm to 9:00 pm (Core 6:00-8:00)

White Pines Independence Hall
1445 Blagen Road
White Pines, CA
Sonora


Tuesday, March 17, 2009
4:00 pm to 9:00 pm (Core 6:00-8:00)
Sonora Opera Hall
250 S. Washington St
Sonora, CA
Greeley Hill


Wednesday, March 18, 2009
4:00 pm to 9:00pm (Core 6:00-8:00)
Greeley Hill Community Club House
Fiske Road
Greeley Hill, CA
Lodi


Saturday, March 21, 2009
1:00 pm to 6:00 pm (Core 3:00-5:00)
Lodi Grape Festival Grounds
413 Lockeford Street, Jackson Hall
Lodi, CA
West Point To be Determined (March 24 tentative) Community Hall
Modesto


Saturday, April 4, 2009
3:00 pm to 8:00 pm (Core 5:00-7:00)
Stanislaus County Harvest Hall
3800 Cornucopia Way
Modesto, CA

Comments are invited on the DEIS. The Environmental Protection Agency will publish a Notice of Availability (NOA) for the DEIS in the Federal Register (expected on March 6, 2009); the opportunity to comment ends 60 days following that date.

While comments may be submitted anytime during the analysis process, only those individuals and organizations who provide comments during the comment period are eligible to appeal the subsequent decision under 36 CFR 215.

Mail and Hand Deliver Comments To:
Stanislaus National Forest
Attn: Motorized Travel DEIS
19777 Greenley Road
Sonora, CA 95370

Hand-deliver comments to the address shown above, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm). Oral comments may be provided by calling (209) 532-3671 ext. 350.

Email Comments To:
comments-pacificsouthwest-stanislaus@fs.fed.us

Put "Motorized Travel DEIS" in the subject line of e-mail comments. Acceptable formats are email message, MS Word (.doc), plain text (.txt), or rich text format (.rtf). Comments should include your name and address.

Fax Comments To:
(209) 533-1890

COMMENT DEADLINE IS MAY 5, 2009

To request additional information regarding this project, contact Sue Warren, Team Leader, Stanislaus National Forest, 19777 Greenley Road, Sonora, CA 95370, or e-mail swarren@fs.fed.us(to ensure a timely response, it is important to include "Information Request" in the subject line).

The project web page includes the latest project updates, schedules for public meetings, and other information.

JUST REMEMBER, PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IS CRUCIAL TO KEEP RECREATION AREAS OPEN, PLEASE GET INVOLVED!

Thanks in advance for your support,
Ric Foster
Public Lands Department Manager
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 107

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PostPosted: Thu Mar 05, 2009 7:58 pm 
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BLUERIBBON COALITION ACTION ALERT!

Black Hills National Forest to Release Draft Motorized Travel Plans

Dear BRC Action Alert Subscriber,

Forest Service (FS) officials will hold public meetings in March to familiarize the public with new draft plans for motorized travel management on the Black Hills National Forest. (See schedule below)

Meeting attendees will hear a presentation and Forest Service personnel will be on hand to help and answer questions about the documents. There will be detailed maps, which will illustrate the five alternative approaches to motorized travel in the Forest. The public will also be able to participate in a question and answer period. These formal public meetings will be followed by individual ranger district meetings that will be announced later in March.

The Forest Service has prepared a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), which will be available for review and comment later in the month. Check the Forest's website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/blackhills/recr ... /ohv.shtml for a link to the DEIS and alternative maps. Comments received on the DEIS will be used to further refine alternatives for the Final EIS.

The public is being asked to review and comment on the DEIS during the official 45-day comment period, which will begin on March 20, 2009 and ending on May 4, 2009. Comments should be submitted during this formal comment period because of legal requirements in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process.

They plan to release a final decision in late 2009 and implement the decision in 2010 with the publication of the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM).

Schedule of Meetings:

Monday, March 9, 2009 6pm - 8pm
Crook County Courthouse
Sundance, WY

Tuesday, March 10, 2009 6pm - 8pm
Holiday Inn Express
Spearfish, SD

Wednesday, March 11, 2009 6pm - 8pm
Ramkota Hotel
Rapid City, SD

Thursday, March 12, 2009 6pm - 8pm
Crazy Horse Memorial
Custer, SD

For more information, call Travel Planner Tom Willems or Forest Planner Frank Carroll at 605-673-9200, or visit the Black Hills National Forest website at: www.fs.fed.us/r2/blackhills

JUST REMEMBER, PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IS CRUCIAL TO KEEP RECREATION AREAS OPEN, PLEASE GET INVOLVED!

Thanks in advance for your support,
Ric Foster
Public Lands Department Manager
BlueRibbon Coalition
208-237-1008 ext 104

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