H*elp support trails NOW - Comment on Roadless Initiative

* Message posted to PCT-L from the National Scenic Trails Website
* by our guest doug welker <dwelker@up.net>.
* Please use <mailto:dwelker@up.net> to reply to the sender.

The President's Roadless Initiative has real potential to benefit trails on National Forests.  As a result of the initiative, some areas on our National Forests could be placed in permanent roadless status.  MANY miles of trails in our national trail system run through such areas.  Permanent roadless status would reduce or eliminate noise, motorized access, and logging in the protected areas.

The Initiative directs the Forest Service to solicit public input on what criteria should be used to select areas for permanent roadless status.  Telling them that areas with trails, and perhaps specifically your favorite trail, should be looked at favorably for roadless status may enhance the chances that trails will be protected.  There may be other criteria (perhaps ecological or spatial criteria) you would want them to consider as well.

Having attended a Forest Service public information meeting on a local National Forest, I can say that anti-wilderness, pro-motorized recreation advocates are out in force in opposition to this issue.  That's why it's especially important to put in your two cents on this issue.

Here's where to send your comments via snail mail:

      USDA Forest Service-CAET
      Attn: Roadless Areas NOI
      PO Box 221090
      Salt Lake City, UT 84122

An here's the email address:       roadless/wo_caet-slc@fs.fed.us

As a minimum, please give the Forest Service a quick email comment, supporting the President's Roadless Initiative, and telling them that areas with trails should be looked at favorably for permanent roadless status.

Comments must be postmarked (and emails sent) by DECEMBER 20, 1999 (!!!), so act QUICKLY.  

Also, please pass this message on to any other trail supporters your know, and any trail-related mailing lists you're aware of.

Thanks.	

Doug Welker
President
Peter Wolfe Chapter
North Country Trail Association



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