Please read and send a note to the USFS regarding the Forest Service Trails

The U.S. Forest Service is required to develop a Planning Rule by the National Forest Management Act of 1976. The purpose of the rule is to set requirements for land and resource management by the USFS. The USFS began accepting public comments/input last year. AERC representatives have attended many of these public meetings/hearings. In general, these requirements regulate logging, mining, lease pasture and recreational use of USFS resources. AERC believes it is important to maintain a presence in this planning process, especially since equestrians are not even mentioned in the proposed rule. All AERC Members are encouraged to support equestrian access to USFS trails and lands as described below. Thank you for doing your part!

 

PLEASE HELP! Please take a few moments to write to the USFS regarding access to their trails for equestrians. You are a vital part of this process, and can make a real difference to the future of our sport. Click on the How-To Page to see how you can easily lend your support. Note: the deadline is Monday, May 16, so don’t delay.

 

Recommendations For Comments on the United States Forest Service Planning Rule

Snail mail address:

Forest Service Planning DEIS

C/o Bear West Company

132 E 500 S

Bountiful, Utah 84010

Or by facsimile to 801-397-1605

Or through the public participation portal at http://www.govcomments.com/

Or through the internet website http://www.regulations.gov

Please identify your written comments by including “Planning Rule” on the cover sheet or first page.

1. Provide a brief description of yourself including the fact that you are a trail/endurance rider.

2. Note that the Planning Rule does not specifically address equine recreational trail use. We encourage the FS to include equine trail use.

3. We recommend that the rule specify that local equestrian trail users be notified of local plans or changes in plans for the use of forest trails and riding areas by the responsible authority.

4. Remind the FS that endurance riders are responsible stewards of our public lands and desire to be involved in efforts to plan and develop sustainable multi-use trails.

5. Point out exactly which forests you ride in and how important they are to you.

 

 

 

Thanks,

 

 –Lisa Schneider

AERC Pacific Southwest regional director