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Utah Campaign: Uinta Mountains, Ashley National Forest

Ashley NF

The Ashley National Forest is currently midway through the process of designating a comprehensive system of roads and trails for the first time. 

The Vernal-based Uintah Mountain Club has participated in the county’s collaboration process with a diverse group who worked together to identify appealing trails for non-motorized recreation, as well as appropriate motorized routes. Unfortunately, the Uintah County Commission dismissed the collaboration committee’s recommendations and submitted a map that emphasized excessive ORV development. Other County Commissions in the area have, unfortunately, taken a similar tack, hoping that the development of ORV routes will boost their economies and help them control decisions on public lands.

Undaunted, local conservationists have partnered with Wildlands CPR to collect extensive citizen comments on the Forest Service’s preliminary Travel Plan. Wildlands CPR is helping with policy expertise and strategic organizing, as well as composing extensive comments and analysis to cover the legal aspects of the travel plan. Put together, we have a formidable store of knowledge, both of site-specific issues and larger policy matters. We expect that our input will help the Forest Service craft and adopt a responsible Travel Plan.

TAKE ACTION: Ashley NF Travel Plan

Have you visited the Ashley National Forest and the Uinta Mountains? We can use your knowledge and experience! The Ashley National Forest is currently in their scoping period, meaning that they are seeking comments from the public regarding travel planning and recreation management. This period officially ends on January 8th, 2008, when the Forest Service will begin reviewing the comments and preparing their Draft Management Plan. 

• Write to the Forest Service about your experiences in the Ashley. For information on how to write a good citizen comment letter,  go to the Uinta Mountain Club’s website action page. 

• To look at the Forest Service’s Proposed Action maps, go to their Travel Planning webpage.