Given the increase in popularity and the technological advances being made in motorized recreation, we need to take time today to make conscious choices regarding where we want motorized access and where, either for social or biological reasons, motorized access is not appropriate. I need you to be a part of these choices.
Last fall, the Bitterroot National Forest released a “Travel Management Planning Proposed Action.” We are inviting public comments on the proposed changes to summer and winter motorized recreational use within the nonwilderness portion of the forest through Jan. 31. The ideas outlined in the proposed action were generated largely by conversations we have had with the public over the course of the past few years. It is critical to note that these ideas are simply a starting point for discussions; no management decisions have been made. And, in fact, no decisions are planned until late 2009.
I realize this review has the potential to generate a great deal of conflict in the next few years. I understand that these decisions will affect motorized users more than any other group. However, by not having these discussions now and reaching some decisions that can be clearly described, we invite even more conflict between users and risk greater resource impacts.
I recognize how important the opportunity to visit and enjoy the Bitterroot National Forest is for all types of recreational users. You deserve to have a clear understanding and realistic expectations of where you can go to enjoy the type of experience you want. And, I believe with a bit of give and take from all interests, we can generate a travel management policy that will ensure fun, safe, and diverse recreation experiences for nearly everyone on the Bitterroot National Forest.
We are planning a series of public meetings over the course of the next two weeks to ensure you understand the concepts outlined in the proposed action, and to listen to your concerns and suggestions. These meetings will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Darby Clubhouse in Darby on Wednesday, Jan. 9; the Methodist Church in Stevensville on Thursday, Jan. 10; and the Bitterroot River Inn in Hamilton on Tuesday, Jan. 15.
To give our planning process the greatest chance for success, I need your help. I ask that you:
1. Respectively listen to, as well as, share opinions. You will undoubtedly hear others express opinions that mirror your own just as you will hear ideas and opinions that challenge some of your fundamental beliefs.
2. Expect, and participate in, some give and take and the design of compromises.
3. Don’t purposefully inflame emotions or spread rumors about the planning process.
If you cannot attend one of these meetings, please call or write one of our Ranger District offices or the supervisor’s office with your comments.
Working together, I am confident we can come up with a new travel management policy that will provide quality motorized and nonmotorized recreation experiences while protecting natural resources and clarify where motor vehicle use is appropriate on the Bitterroot National Forest.
Thanks for your help on this project. I look forward to hearing from you.
Dave Bull is forest supervisor for the Bitterroot National Forest. He writes from Hamilton.
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