2018/2019 Public Comments to Preliminary Applications

AGENCIES SUBMITTING PRELIMINARY APPLICATIONS

Please click on an agency to view the public comments received for that agency's preliminary application. All agencies submitting preliminary applications are listed below and only those agencies shown in bold received public comments.

BLM FIELD OFFICES

The California Recreation Alliance fully supports this grant application. We travel from Fort Bragg to teach Free ATV Safety Classes for Children at the ATV Training area at Samoa Dunes. This is a terrific and safe area to teach children, but improvements are needed and these funds could help facilitate that work. Spending trust fund money on creating safe areas to teach children is a win-win. The funds are going for what they are supposed to and a new generation of off-roaders is created. We urge the Division to support this project! Sarah Bradley - 3/14/2019


I did not see any mention of weed abatement services on the El Mirage lake bed as there had been in the past, without weed abatement on the lakebed damaged areas would be taken over by weeds. Robert Wall - 3/13/2019


I understand that the federal bill, S47 was just signed into law and that some parts of the bill affect BLM land in San Bernardino County. I wonder if the passing of this bill will affect the placement of signs on the ground and if this grant has sufficient funding to provide for such signs. Signing routes is a highly effective way to manage routes and I encourage the state and BLM to coordinate the signing of any routes opened by this bill. Ed Stovin - 3/18/2019


Download the Comments Letter  - Jeff Aardahl, California Representative, Defenders of Wildlife and Ed LaRue, Jr., MS Chair, Ecosystems Advisory Committee- 3/20/2019


This is actually a modest grant request, given how much opportunity is managed by the field office. Thanks for keeping so much open for us to enjoy. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


This application should be funded. Good ground operations, maintenance, service, repair and monitoring to the recreational infrastructure is essential to a rewarding OHV experience. Adequate staffing for the visitor centers and the presence of OHV Park Rangers in the field enhances a visitors experience. It encourages responsible use and preservation of this very valuable natural resource. John R Shepherd - 3/13/2019


This request for funding should be approved. Regular patrols by a BLM Law Enforcement Ranger provides several benefits for visitors to the Bishop BLM management area. In addition to basic law enforcement and public safety related activities, the public out-reach and educational activities of the BLM ranger is especially useful in helping to preserve the recreational value of this area for current as well as future visitors. John R Shepherd - 3/13/2019


This project will provide significant long term value to the OHV community and should be funded. Accurate maps and ground information on the OHV trail system is essential for efficient and effective management of the system. Understanding use patterns, route conditions, having current cultural resource surveys, and other information readily available in electronic format is key to optimizing the use of limited resources to manage, maintain, and repair OHV trails. John R Shepherd - 3/13/2019


This request to fund monitoring of previously restoration projects should be funded. Unfortunately a small portion of the OHV community are not responsible users. Monitoring, identifying, and quickly repairing the damage done by irresponsible users will help minimize off-trail use impact as well as damage to the reputation of the vast majority of the OHV community that are responsible users. Another very worthwhile effort included in this request is updating the route maps with more current GPS data and digital storage of the surveys. John Shepherd - 3/26/2019


Unfortunately use abuse does occur and it needs to be corrected as quickly as possible. In some cases the agencies should consider opening a route that has high demand and usefulness but is not a legal route. It could be better to open a route and stop beating your head against the barrier. ES4x4 Club President. Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


Monitoring the trail conditions will help lead to sustainable recreation and the ability to make repairs before substantial damage is done. It is important that the BLM get user advise on how to properly evaluate trails. Other agencies have done a poor job of this because they did not seek user input. We look forward to working with the BLM on this project. ES4x4 Club President Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


The OHV community has a good relationship with the BLM law enforcement. In addition to the areas mentioned in this grant request, I would like to see more support in the Alabama Hills due to the new designation and increased visitations. ES4x4 Club President Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club looks forward to the opportunity to have the support of "boots on the ground" which has been lacking. Over the years the roads and trails have suffered considerable water damage and in some cases use abuse. The OHV tourism is a significant part of our economy and this grant is the type of support we need. ES4x4 Club President Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


Sara and Steve at the Bishop BLM are good to work with and appreciate our input. This is a great OHV area and requires a lot of support. Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


This fund for monitoring restoration projects should be funded because it will have value for the environment and the OHV community. Monitoring, identifying, and quickly repairing the damage done by irresponsible users will help reduce environmental impacts and should reduce the number of illegal trails. Pat Woods - 5/4/2019


This project will provide value to the OHV community and to the agency and should be funded. Having accurate maps, ground information, use patterns, resource surveys and other information readily available to planners allows for proper and efficient management. Pat Woods - 5/4/2019


This application should be funded, it encourages responsible use and preservation of our valuable natural resources and enhances our visitors experience. The Eastern Sierra has experienced a huge increase in the numbers of people who recreate in Inyo and Mono counties and that trend it is going to continue. Many of these visitors recreate with vehicles on public lands and some of them are clueless regarding OHV safety and responsibility. Proper staffing with the right type of employee for the visitor centers and the presence of OHV Rangers in the field can provide education to these folks that will enhance safety and their overall experience. The proper and efficient maintenance, service, repair and monitoring of recreational facilities is essential to the agency and helps provide a rewarding OHV experience for our visitors. Pat Woods - 5/4/2019


This request for funding should be approved. Bishop BLM has experienced a huge increase in the numbers of people who recreate in Inyo and Mono counties and that trend it is going to continue. Most of these folks access the area by vehicle. Public compliance with all resource laws and regulations ensures that we will have a bountiful healthy area to enjoy for years to come. Enforcement needs all the help it can get to properly patrol an area of this size and that is this remote. Pat Woods - 5/4/2019


Just wanted to show my support for improvements to Rice Canyon for OHV use. Making improvements to this area would be beneficial to the local economy and provide a nice spot for beginners and other enthusiasts to practice and improve skills on the OHVs. Thanks! kevin Sevier - 4/16/2019


Just wanted to show my support for improving the facilities at the Fort Sage OHV area. I enjoy visiting Fort Sage a few times a year, driving from Chico, to ride dirt bikes and camp. Thanks! kevin sevier - 4/16/2019


As a club with 25 family members that visits the ISDRA about 7 times a season we have the following comments: On the issue of trash. All visitors to the ISDRA must purchase a pass, we assumed the cost of trash was part of this permit? We can not find on the BLM website where these funds go. Some of our members have visited the dunes for over 40 years, back when there was no trash cans, toilets. The average visitor comes with a self contained camper / motorhome. The use of trash cans and pit toilets are seldom used by our club members. We can think of the 63 vault toilets mentioned, we haven't seen that many. We believe the trash issue should be paid from user fees only. Materials: The request for 500 markers should be questioned. When the closures came down from 41,000 acres not long ago, there should be hundreds (or thousands) of markers removed from that service area. We do still see some in the dunes once in awhile. Yes there are many visitors per year, but the majority come with all their own toilet and take their trash home. The perception is if you pay for a pass, and if you dump your trash in the bins, you have received something for the expense of the pass. I've seen the dumpsters leaving the dunes, lots of trash was NOT created at the dunes, people are bringing trash from home. Thanks, Jim Colln Secretary - R&R Duners Club Jim Colln - R&R Duners Club - 3/11/2019


I understand that the federal bill, S47 was just signed into law and that some parts of the bill affect BLM land in Imperial County. I wonder if the passing of this bill will affect the placement of signs on the ground and if this grant has sufficient funding to provide for such signs. Signing routes is a highly effective way to manage routes and I encourage the state and BLM to coordinate the signing of any routes opened by this bill. Ed Stovin - 3/18/2019


A fairly modest grant to support search and rescue of the hundreds of thousands of visitors to the dunes each year. Having trained personnel with rescue buggies makes the dunes a much better place. Please make sure this grant request gets funded. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


This LE grant is super important to keep peace in the high use area of Glamis as well as the other areas managed. The ROV's and trailer are really needed and are an important part of their work. I'm not sure how the maps got put in this category, but they help people stay in the right areas. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


This is a pretty modest grant request considering how much opportunity it manages. The water truck is a pretty big chunk, but is super important. They water wash road in the dunes on big weekends, which is really important for dust control. There was a lawsuit against the county about dust and while the county won, there is significant pressure to keep dust down, so this is appreciated. If the size of the grant is limited by match, we should talk about doing some cleanups by the racing staging areas, Lark Canyon and Painted Gorge. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


I understand that the federal bill, S47 was just signed into law and that some parts of the bill affect BLM land in California. I wonder if the passing of this bill will affect the placement of signs on the ground and if this grant has sufficient funding to provide for such signs. Signing routes is a highly effective way to manage routes and I encourage the state and BLM to coordinate the signing of any routes opened by this bill. Ed Stovin - 3/18/2019


Nice group of grants to support OHV in this large area. I am curious about Staff-Wilderness Specialist and wilderness regulations. I have not seen this and am curious. Is there more to wilderness than no mechanized travel? I haven't heard of OHV ethical programs. I'd love to know about that too. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


Off-road vehicles and illegal mountain biking is a great problem in North San Diego County and SW Riverside County. Increased presence of law enforcement would help with habitat protection, resident/hiker/equestrian and OHV conflicts. This is a safety, habitat conservation issue and ethical problem. Please approve this grant. Pamela Nelson - 4/17/2019


I support the making of a OHV management plan in this field office. Please make sure I am on the list of people being notified of the steps along the way so I can comment. As you move through this, please consider contacting the California Off-Road Vehicle Association for help. We love new opportunity and if you can identify a suitable area to make "open" we would love to help. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


Download the Comments Letter  - Jeff Aardahl, California Representative, Defenders of Wildlife and Ed LaRue, Jr., MS Chair, Ecosystems Advisory Committee- 3/20/2019


I feel that the amount of fencing is suficient and I personally had a close call by the placement of the fencing on a heavily traveled trial that had no warning signs to alert me to its placement accross a trail. When will some areas be reopened? Specifically trails that are currently fenced off. Robert Sanders - 3/29/2019


Download the Comments Letter Reed Tollefson, Audubon California Kern River Preserve - 2/25/2019


BLM is requesting funding to replace the mobile fuel tanks at Jawbone Station with two stationary fuel tanks. However, there are currently three mobile tanks because there are three types of fuels in use: leaded gasoline, diesel, and red-dye diesel. I suggest that BLM revise its application to provide for three stationary fuel tanks instead of two. Thank you. Desarae Walling - 5/4/2019


Click to download Comment. Brian Lowney- 2/13/2019


Click to download Comment. Bob Schneider - 2/13/2019


Click to download Comment. Eric Lueder - 2/13/2019


Click to download Comment. Ron McDonell - 2/13/2019


 

US FOREST SERVICE

I would like to comment on the CNF grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. This is a humble and important grant to manage a prime OHV area just outside San Diego. I see you have ATVs and motorcycles. I didn't know you had these. I'm interested to know what you have, where you store them and who operates them? I thank the forest for installing the restroom at Four Corners and for all the work done to keep the area viable. I will see you at the cleanup/trail work event tomorrow. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


I would like to comment on the CNF grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. It makes me sad that the area has been closed for a few years due to a fire. When there was a similar fire in the CNF south a dozen years ago, staff put up low fences to keep people on the trails and trails were opened in a matter of months, not years. Worse, Wildomar only has 8 miles of trails that could have been fenced. Last year in my comments, I offered the forest to help get volunteers to help the area. I was never contacted. I hope the area can be opened soon. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


Last year, these GREEDY, CORRUPTED, EXALTED & EXUBERANT "Pickle Shirts" received an ALARMING $185,880 of OUR Green Sticker Funds for so-called "Restoration" (which is never pointed out and allowed to be examined afterwards by the general public). Also last year, $83,475 was applied for by CNF / North !! THIS YEAR, they are attempting to get their grubby hands on $144,667 or OUR Green Sticker Funds. Firstly, I must submit that two years ago was my first 'baptism of-sorts' into commenting on this particular applicant. That being said… here – we – GO !!! SO... $144,677 for an area that has been routinely CLOSED for a majority of the operable days from early November until present day. BUT WAIT !!! The Wildomar OHV area has been closed to the public for over TWO YEARS NOW !!! Where is the OHV-related recreation opportunity ?? AND let's not forget the Holy Fire last year that ravaged Main Divide and much of this forest from East to West. AGAIN, no OHV or even street-licensed vehicle opportunities from Ortega Hwy all the way to just past Santiago Peak (near four corners). Also, in relation to any drivable roads North of Highway 74 (Ortega Hwy) on over to Beeks Place... If there is even a HINT of a light misting from a few wayward clouds OR even an coincidental appearance of a light breeze coming from the Pacific Ocean, they RUSH UP THE MOUNTAIN with great haste in efforts to SLAM SHUT EVERY GATE WITHIN THE SANTA ANA MTN RANGE in the Trabuco Ranger District. Not only that, there has been acts of rampant DISCRIMINATION AND CIVIL RIGHTS VIOLATIONS upon persons wishing to participate in their USFS Volunteer Program. The Trabuco Ranger District is absurdly corrupted and vehemently villainous in their vitriol !! I cannot support such an agency, regionally or otherwise, that partakes in such acts without making efforts to rectify their egregious, oppressive and burdensome actions against the law-abiding public!! REGION FIVE ADMINS - LOOK INTO THIS OVERT CURRUPTION !!! Infected from the TRD Dist Mgr down to the Rec Ofcr and on over to two of the three LEOs that inhabit this district (hope they don't spread the virus over to Palomar as well) !! I say cut this amount in HALF and utilize their considerable volunteer base for routine maintenance and the multitude of other duties (what else is all that training for other than to be used in the field?). Truly, Dan Simmerman Dan Simmerman - 5/6/2019


The OHV and OSV Volunteers have a very strong presence working with the “NF” National Forest Staff in maintaining the trails. All the trails. In many instances, the volunteers do the majority of the work to ensure we can keep them open for the public and not closed due to not being properly maintained. The volunteers need to be recognized within this grants needing: materials, tools, supplies and PPE in order to accomplish what is within this grant application. This grant money NEEDS to be allocated to the Volunteers who are directly working on the Ground. The Volunteers make this grant happen. Allocation NEEDS to be given for Chainsaws, Vehicle Use or Mileage reimbursement while on the project activities listed within this grant. Volunteers are absolutely vital in order for the NF to fulfill the contents of deliverable's mentioned within. The NF mentions the use of Volunteers in this grant application. The Volunteers need more input as to what they need to do their jobs in this grant application. Us Volunteers should not feel like poor people begging for a hand out. IT SHOULD NOT BE THIS WAY!! We need to feel like we are as valuable as we know we are!! We bring years and years of trail experience to this Adopt-A-Trail program. For too many years now, the Volunteers give too much of their personal finances to get this work done; which is ALL LISTED within all these grants the NF continuously receive on the backs of all us Volunteers. We need a true partnership agreement ensuring we too are recipients of this OHV Grants. It’s the way it should be! The NF cannot fulfill these grants without the Volunteers. Plain and simple. Please understand that I want to the NF to receive this much needed funding. I appreciate the OHV/ OSV Staff and all that they do!! We just need to be told with more than words that we're valuable. We need to be told with resources. With materials, supplies, PPE, shovels, chainsaws, vehicle use reimbursements, mileage reimbursement. We need to be told that these grants are for us also as partners. Thank you for this consideration. Mike McGarity - 3/11/2019


I support ALL PUBLIC USE of our PUBLIC LANDS! Including the three current applications. Recreation is very important for the physical and mental/emotional health of our nation. Thank you, ElDorado National Forest! Evie Wilson, 209-742-4261, Mariposa CA 95338 Evie Wilson - 3/8/2019


I support full funding for this project. Trail maintenance and maintenance of the associated facilities is necessary for both providing a high quality OHV recreation opportunity while encouraging users to stay on designated routes. This area is heavily used, very close to the large population centers of Sacramento, Stockton and the San Francisco Bay Area, and along a major trans-Sierra Highway. Funding this project should be a high priority. Lester Lubetkin - 3/26/2019


This proposal will improve OHV recreation in the INF and should be funded. As a member of the Member of Eastern Sierra 4x4 club, which will be helping with these projects, I endorse the much needed maintenance and repair work that will be done with the funding. John R Shepherd - 3/13/2019


This proposal should be funded. A consistent level of law enforcement is essential to preserve the recreational value of the INF. Unfortunately there is a small minority of the OHV community that are not responsible users of the INF. FPO's working with LEO's help minimize the negative impact on the majority of responsible users by those users that abuse the INF. John R Shepherd - 3/13/2019


Over the last 10 or more years OHMVR has provided grant funding to the Inyo Forest that totals in the millions of dollars. The Inyo Forest has a culture that dislikes OHV activities and has historically used an environmental group, The Friends of Inyo, to do the work dictated by Inyo Forest. These two groups work hand and glove to lessen the opportunities for OHV riders by closing roads. Not one person that I know (OHV riders) has ever seen the Inyo Forest or their contractor (the Friends of Inyo) do ANY work on OHV trails except to close them. They have closed hundreds of miles of roads and improved or maintained not one. If OHMVR feels somehow compelled to give Inyo Forest additional funds (which I adamantly oppose) then staff should find a method that would mandate that these funds are accounted for and the done only goes to improving and maintaining OHV trails. Of the millions already spent that have only negatively impacted OHV activity, no money for years to come should go to "Restoration". In the Inyo "Restoration" is code for close roads. Please do not give money that ends up lessening our ability to recreate on the existing roads. These roads that criss cross Inyo County were built with our tax dollars during the war, to enhance the mining industry and help the war effort. Save our recreation. Randy Short - 4/13/2019


The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club supports the efforts of all local agencies, nonprofits and government entities to utilize the OHMVR grants to enhance the OHV experience and help to make it sustainable. The Inyo National Forest (INF) has received millions of dollars in OHMVR grants and we have failed to see where the money went. We will again support this new grant request but we want to see the INF utilize the user groups to help make decisions on how, why, where and when this money is spent. Period! ES4x4 Club President Mike Johnston - 4/13/2019


I would like to comment on the Inyo NF grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. The grant looks good and we appreciate all you do to keep us going on all those trails. There is a project I didn't see mentioned about connecting BLM to NF routes in the Inyo. By connecting, I mean designating highways as dual use so that OHVs can go down the road to connect to trails. There is a state bill, SB402 to extend this another 5 years. Is there work being done now to connect routes? I'd like to hear about it. Thanks, Ed Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


It is my understanding that $7000 in funding was taken away for the maintenance of OHV equipment, additionally another $7000 of funding was removed for the rental of equipment. It is important that equipment be maintained or it becomes unusable junk that sits it the bone yard. Sometimes it is more cost effective to rent a piece of equipment than to purchase it. I request that these two INF requests be funded. Pat Woods - 5/4/2019


snowmobile access Jeremy Cole - 4/13/2019


In previous grant applications, i.e. G16, there was funding for providing both trash dumpsters and portable toilets at Gold Hill Campground on the Mt Pinos Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest. Gold Hill Campground, located at Piru Creek, is a popular OHV staging area providing access to several nearby trails, and due to its heavy use, funding for toilets needs to be provided in this grant application, in addition to dumpsters. Mark Subbotin - 4/3/2019


The Volunteers have a very strong presence working with the National Forest Staff in maintaining the trails. All the trails. In many instances, the volunteers do the majority of the work to ensure we can keep them open for the public and not closed due to not being properly maintained otherwise. The volunteers need materials, tools, supplies and PPE in order to accomplish this. This grant funding is absolutely needed to the Volunteers who are directly working on the Ground. The Volunteers make this grant happen. Volunteer Adopt-A-Trail clubs/groups need Chainsaws, Vehicle Use or Mileage reimbursement while on the project activities listed within this grant. Volunteers are absolutely vital in order for the SNF to fulfill the contents of deliverable's mentioned within. Thank you Mendocino National Forest for recognizing this and including Volunteers in your grant request!! Mike McGarity - 3/11/2019


Ground Operations-General Mark Borchert - 5/4/2019


Ground Operations Grant, General Requirements In reviewing both the San Bernardino National Forest and the Southern CA Mountains Foundation General Evaluation Criteria Requirements, Item 4. There is an inconsistancy, please clarify. Ground Operations Grant I see other agencies and Forests use several different types of match that should be added to this grant. The Forest pays Visitor Center staff to provide information to the public on OHV area riding areas and give out free OHV maps at various facilities, the Forest pays for commercial trash removal at OHV campgrounds and pays for toilet pumping at OHV staging areas and OHV campgrounds. Doesn't the Forest provide a lot of vehicle costs that could also be used as match? The Forest website shows lots of winter storm damage to roads, they should use the Forest road repair funds as match too. Please clarify number of HMP sites throughout grant. Seems there were more last year. I support the equipment purchase of ATV sport vehicle, they should add the word "monitoring" before HMP. I support the staffing and work that would be done with these funds. Mark Borchert - 5/4/2019


I would like to comment on the SBNF grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. This is a big grant to manage a large, well used area that many people just love. I don't understand why it cost $100,000 to fix trails 2n33 and 2N36. I don't know the trails, but it really seems high. I hope the gates can be opened soon so I can go back out there to ride. Thanks for taking care of one of my favorite places to go. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


LAST YEAR, The GREEDY, CORRUPTED, EXALTED & EXUBERANT "Pickle Shirts" received an ALARMING $853,087 dollars of OUR Green Sticker Funds for so-called "Restoration" (which is never pointed out and allowed to be examined afterwards by the general public). Twp years ago, a whopping $591,444 applied for by the San Bernardino National Forest… WOW !!! THIS YEAR, they are attempting to get their grubby hands on $751,064.40 or OUR Green Sticker Funds. Firstly, I must submit that two years ago was my first 'baptism of-sorts' into commenting on this particular applicant. That being said… here – we – GO !!! So, once again, I see that within this O&M Grant, the SBNF is asking for $85,765.40 for an Assistant OHV Program Manager to the tune of $93,527 with a pitiful match of $7,761.60 which I find laughable at best !!! A few short, 'glorious' years ago, they were asking for $68,541 with a $20,460 'match' from USFS Federal Fund. It brought this person's salary up to $89,001 which was considered to be absurdly high when compared to the salary being some $20,000 more than previously applied for funds for an actual presiding OHV Program Manager three-plus years ago!! But now, I find out they claim the acting OHV Manager is actually the Recreation Manager whom has historically been in charge of overseeing every other type of recreation OTHER THAN “Motorized OHV Recreation”. So, why so much for an assistant position? And are we STILL funding an OHV MANAGER in addition to an Assistant OHV MANAGER? Especially since they claim the OHV Manager is the Recreation Manager (comparatively little experience with OHV when accessed in relation to Senor Hassel-Hoff-man)! In years past, the applicant asked for just about $65,000 for the main OHV manager. Accountability should be paramount as I can see no reason an ASSISTANT position would demand such an exhorbanant salary! If the person who had been the acting (in name and in function) OHV MANAGER is in fact, now the Assistant OHV Manager (rhymes with “COUGH-MANN”), I’d say ‘fine by me’. BUT… I suspect that the assistant manager is actually someone who has quite the checkered past, to say the least, from his days as an LEO in East Riverside County (first name sounds like ‘CRAVE’, last name rhymes with GENTLEY). YIKES !!!! OHV FPO Technicians (SIX of 'em at just over $60K a-year) to the tune of $360,653 for the year? WHERE IS THE MATCH FROM THE FOREST SERVICE !?!? They do more than merely monitor OHV activity and enforce OHV-related regulations (CFRs). Are they going to ignore shooting practice & bow hunting areas PLUS what about hikers, MTB riders and equestrians? Will they be calling in for back-up / relief on each instance that does NOT involve motorized recreation? "This is to fund 6 Forest Protection Officers OHV Technicians to monitor and maintain all OHV Trails, Routes, and Facilities on the SBNF. This includes 2 for Mountain Top District, 2 for Front Country District, 1 for San Jacinto District, &1 forest-wide Two years ago, the applicant asked for $20,000 for yet ANOTHER Polaris RZR UTV. There were already two (2) within the fleet which I have yet to see ANY OF THEM EVEN ONCE on the forest. THIS YEAR, ONCE AGAIN... They are requesting a WHOPPING $18,000 for yet ANOTHER ATV!! Iis this toward a UTV or a pair of ATVs - Volleys are WAY to hard on equipment? Who Cares, RIGHT??? After all, its not the VOLLEY's vehicles OR MONEY !!! This amount of $$$ could easily have funded two ATVs or maybe even three motorcycles. Why do the FPOs and LEOs need to travel in such extravagant comfort? Maybe a rite of passage, perhaps? If so, I submit not at the expense of OUR green sticker funds Again, two years ago (or more), the applicant requested an allotment for a Road Maintenance Contractor (for green sticker routes) to the tune of $65,000... WOW!!! FAST FORWARD A BIT TO LAST YEAR and now applying for same position to tune of $100,000… DOUBLE WOW !!! WHOOPS, MY BAD... Make that TRIPLE-WOW !!! AGAIN, they're asking for another mind-numbing ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND BUCKS !!! Sure is hard for them to ease on off of that drug-like fix they've been enjoying each year for the last half-decade or so. I say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH !!! STOP THE MADNESS !!! VOLUNTEERS, VOLUNTEERS, VOLUNTEERS - Where are they ??? The Adopt-A-Trail Program has over 48 active clubs with over 3000 active members with each club adopting a trail within the forest and THEY claim to be routinely doing MOST of the trail maintenance on their prospective trails. "These volunteers perform trail monitoring & maintenance (hand work) on Green Sticker routes and notify staff where mechanized work is necessary". 12,000 hours claimed is years past at a proposed value of $331,080 (up from $322,000 just two years ago = real dollars, not monopoly money). THIS YEAR, A scant yet somewhat healthy 10,000 hours (still down over 2,000 hours) and a virtuous value of $246,900 !!! SO ... WHY the need to pay an outside (or inside) contractor? Have the Adopt-A-Trail clubs and their respective volunteers not been carrying their own weight lately? If so, no need for $90,000 to fund an assistant OHV Program Manager to manage the AAT volunteers when this forest says a route maintenance contractor is required to, let's say "take up the slack"! Money better spent on another deserving forest - spread the wealth - but not like Bernie Sanders proposes (Oh wait... he LOST - sorry, SNOWFLAKES)! Now, I see that $10,000 is being requested for MC/ATV/Excavator Maintenance… AGAIN, just like last year. This looks to be ONLY for service costs incurred by taking these vehicles to a dealership This forest HAD at least one competent, manufacturer-certified mechanic who volunteered their time to the AAT program AND to SCMF diligently and selflessly for over 6+ years. The SBNF squandered and exploited this resource by way of (ahem... alleged) DISCRIMINATION & CIVIL RIGHTS VIOLATIONS and NOW has repeatedly requested for this towering amount of funds for simple, routine maintenance... much of which can be completed 'in house' by one of the thousands of capable (and captive) VOLUNTEERS at their disposal. Or maybe they've just 'scared' off the capable ones and are left to ask for OUR funds. Lastly, A request for $4,500 for "Materials / Supplies-Riding PPE for FPO OHV Technicians: Replacement of personal safety equipment (helmets, knee, elbow & chest protectors, gloves, boots, etc.) as we have new staff with different sizes". So... WE have to pay for their inability to retain the FPOs they spent valuable hours training because they transferred "lateral" to another forest AND the remaining equipment purchased for past personnell is not aesthetically pleasing nor comforting to newly-scrubbed recruits? I wore "hand-me-downs" all through grade-school and if it was A-OK then, the MILL-N-E-Ls (millenials) can adapt and overcome just as WE did !!! I say cut this amount in HALF and utilize their considerable volunteer base for routine maintenance and the multitude of other duties (what else is all that training for other than to be used in the field?). Truly, Dan Simmerman Dan Simmerman - 5/6/2019


USFS - Shasta-Trinity National Forest

As the general manager of the Sierra Club Foundation property on Mt. Shasta, I have some concerns about the current, and past, grant applications. The Foundation property is a 720 acre private inholding with a cabin, composting toilet, campsites, and a freshwater spring, within forest service land, that is almost entirely surrounded by wilderness. This facility provides a tremendous service to the public by providing a toilet and water to those accessing the Mt. Shasta Wilderness. It can be seen here https://www.sierraclubfoundation.org/what-we-fund/horse-camp-mt-shasta and here https://www.sierraclubfoundation.org/sierra-club-foundation-shasta-staff-and-volunteers-keep-horse-camp-looking-tip-top . I've been the general manager of the property for twenty nine years and have actively observed use patterns at Bunny Flat for forty years. Although all three areas of the grant application are worthy of funding; only one area should be fully funded with all of the funds available this grant cycle- this is the area concerning law enforcement. The Forest Service has consistently encouraged and increased the use of snowmobiles in the general area, including the Bunny Flat trailhead, through the use of Off Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division funding. This has included grooming, warning huts, public outreach, information on their website and social media platforms, education, and maintenance of facilities and trails. Over the years we have had numerous user conflicts and violations of the snowmobile boundary in the Bunny Flat area, into the wilderness and on Foundation property. I have documented this with photographs and notes over the last twenty five years. In spite of the attempts of the Wilderness Rangers, this is a continuing and ongoing problem and most often occurs when they are not present to document such violations- this is by intent and not by accident because any snowmobiler can see when a forest service ranger is parked, or not, at Bunny Flat. I would encourage you to read a recently published paper, by a district employee, that involves a yearlong survey conducted on the Everitt Memorial Hwy corridor and the area around Bunny Flat. It is a public document titled "Outdoor Recreation Study in Mount Shasta, CA: Public Input to Improve Recreation Experiences along the Everitt Memorial Highway" and can be requested from the Shasta Trinity district office (I was unable to attach it to my comments). The "recommendations" and "conclusions" on pages 76-92 confirm many of my observations. That snowmobilers are clearly a minority user group, .5-1% locally and 4% nationally and expected to decline, yet they are responsible for most of the conflict and parking problems at Bunny Flat. Creating fumes, noise, lack of parking (especially with long trailers) and generally diminishing the experience of the majority of users at this location. The report makes many recommendations to alleviate this problem, but they all currently lack any funding source. During this same time the forest service has experienced a tremendous reduction in law enforcement funding. In 2017 new trail head construction and signage at Bunny Flat was built which will help with many of these problems, but this is completely under the snow in winter. Ten to twenty years ago, law enforcement was present at Bunny Flat on a regular basis. During the winter there is currently a total absence of law enforcement, even when requested by wilderness rangers. This is compounded by law enforcement in the district not being under the control of the district ranger, which makes for an impossible management situation. They simply lack the resource to manage and enforce the current use. Even though past funding has provided for snowmobile opportunities at alternative locations (Pilgrim Ck, Deer Mtn, and Ash Creek) these are all at lower elevations. In most years, and with an increasingly higher snow line, this sends most snowmobile users to the higher elevation Bunny Flat trail head. The end result is that even though the national trend is a reduction in snowmobile use, the local trend is a significant increase of use at Bunny Flat. In future years I fully expect many of the improvements at the lower elevation alternative sites to be underutilized or not utilized at all- a tremendous waste of funds. In this situation there is only one alternative to consider. That is to increase funding for law enforcement until such time as other measures are funded to reduce user conflict at this location. My suggestion is to forego any further funding of education, maintenance, and repairs and focus all funding on enforcement until the message is out that the Forest Service intends to enforce the current forest orders and requires compliance of snowmobilers. A clear majority of public users, not to mention private land owners, at this location will not be served until this happens. Chris Marrone - 5/3/2019


OHV users (i.e. snowmobiles) create a number of conflicts at the Bunny Flat trailhead, which degrade the user experience for the 95% of non-motorized recreators. These impacts include: Noise - especially from 2-stroke engines. Exhaust fumes - people enjoy the clean mountain air. Parking - Snowmobile trailers take the space of up to 3 regular vehicles. Pollution - spills of oil and gas occur frequently in the parking lot. Wilderness boundary breaching - several times per year snowmoblies are observed in Avalanche Gulch. My proposed solutions are to 1) ban snowmobiles from Bunny Flat by expanding the wilderness area, or 2) create a separate parking lot to preserve the wilderness experience for non-motorized users. Kevin Andras - 5/3/2019


The biggest recreation conflict is the increasing snowmobile use at Bunny Flat on Mt. Shasta. Snowmobiles only constitute 5% of the public users but they degrade the experience of the other 95% of visitors. In addition, the lack of law enforcement allows errant snowmobiles to illegally enter wilderness areas. Funds should be focused on moving the snowmobile parking lot to its own area, away from the main Bunny Flat parking lot, and on funding more law enforcement at the Bunny Flat parking area. To sum, the minority snowmobiles at Bunny Flat are ruining the experience for the vast majority of visitors. Of course the other longer-term solution is to legislatively close the doughnut hole in the Mt. Shasta wilderness area, thus banning snowmobiles from that area. Thank you. Lee Benda - 5/3/2019


The biggest recreation conflict is the increasing snowmobile use at Bunny Flat on Mt. Shasta. Snowmobiles only constitute 5% of the public users but they degrade the experience of the other 95% of visitors. In addition, the lack of law enforcement allows errant snowmobiles to illegally enter wilderness areas. Funds should be focused on moving the snowmobile parking lot to its own area, away from the main Bunny Flat parking lot, and on funding more law enforcement at the Bunny Flat parking area. To sum, the minority snowmobiles at Bunny Flat are ruining the experience for the vast majority of visitors. Of course the other longer-term solution is to legislatively close the doughnut hole in the Mt. Shasta wilderness area, thus banning snowmobiles from that area. Thank you. Lee Benda - 5/3/2019


To whom it may concern, I would like to see more presence of Avalanche Forecasters, Wilderness Rangers, Ambassadors and Forest Service Law enforcement at the Bunny Flat parking area during the winter and spring seasons when skiers, tourists sight seeing and snowmobile use is at it's highest use which is the weekends. I have been using the Bunny Flat parking area for over 25 years. The use of the parking area has increased dramatically. The most detrimental users of the Bunny Flat parking area are snowmobilers. The trailers used by snowmobilers are very large and impact the parking of other users dramatically. The increased use has not been matched by increased law enforcement or other forest service employees or volunteers. The winter of 2019-20 was a more normal snow year where other access points for snowmobile use were more accessible due to lower snow levels. Yet, the parking at Bunny Flat was still impacted hugely by snowmobile users with enormous trailers reducing parking for other users with out trailers. The parking and violations of snowmobiles in the wilderness seem to go relatively unchecked by Forest Service employees, law enforcement or ambassador volunteers. During the winter, there has been a virtual absence of rangers, forecasters or the ambassadors who are supposed to help monitor etiquette of snowmobile users at Bunny Flat on the weekends. With rising snow levels, the Bunny Flat area is being inundated with snowmobile users on the weekends. Yet, mysteriously, there is very little, if any presence of forest service employees, law enforcement or ambassadors at Bunny Flat during the heaviest use of the facility which is on weekends. I would like to see regular presence of Forest Service Employees, Law Enforcement and the snowmobile volunteers or ambassadors a the Bunny Flat parking area on the weekends monitoring snowmobile users and promoting general etiquette for the use of the most impacted facility which is Bunny Flat. Sincerely, Michael Kirwin Michael Kirwin - 5/4/2019


Snowmobile education is a good idea. MSAC is an important part. The biggest concern I have is the Bunny Flat parking lot. Following are a list of concerns and ideas for improvement: Concerns *Not adequate parking for both snowmobile trailers and the general public creating safety issues. *No turn around space for trailers when lot is full. *Not enough signage both in the lot and on the road explaining where to park and where to ride. *Parking lot becoming so full that vehicles are parking in avalanche zone *Dogs running loose and creating safety issues *Uneducated public spending the night in parking lot when a large storm is forecasted creating rescue situations *Relying on volunteers is a liability Ideas *Create a parking lot just for snowmobile trailers just below the current parking area. *Charge a fee to park with an option of buying a season pass similar to Oregon . Using those proceeds to pay someone to monitor situation. *Having someone evacuate parking lot before forecasted big storms *Fines for dogs that are off leash and for owners that don't clean up the dog excrement Thank you for the opportunity to comment Cheryl Kirwin cheryl kirwin - 5/4/2019



The OHV and OSV Volunteers have a very strong presence working with the SNF Staff in maintaining the trails. All the trails. In many instances, the volunteers do all the work to ensure we can keep them open for the public and not closed due to not being properly maintained. The volunteers have asked for materials, tools, supplies and PPE in order to accomplish what is within this grant application. More grant money needs to be allocated to the Volunteers who are directly working on the Ground. The Volunteers make this grant happen. We do appreciate the allocation of $600 for materials and $2,000 for PPE. No allocation was given for Chainsaws, Vehicle Use or Mileage reimbursement while on the project activities listed within this grant. Volunteers are absolutely vital in order for the SNF to fulfill the contents of deliverable's mentioned within. The Volunteers need more input as to what they need to do their jobs in this grant application. I would like to formally request that the SNF purchases a Storage Container with this grant and place it at the Prather Office. The container can have all the OHV and OSV Volunteer Materials, Supplies, PPE, Chainsaws, Signage, etc.. to accomplish the trail work they are doing in the SNF. A storage container sells for about $4,000 delivered. This is a very small amount in comparison to the over $800,000 grant request. Out of this $800,000; the Volunteers feel like poor people begging for a hand out. IT SHOULD NOT BE THIS WAY!! We need to feel like we are as valuable as we know we are!! We bring years and years of trail experience to this Adopt-A-Trail program. For too many years now, the Volunteers give too much of their personal finances to get this work done; which is ALL LISTED within all these grants the SNF continuously receive on the backs of all us Volunteers. We need a true partnership agreement ensuring we too are recipients of this OHV Grants. Its the way is should be! The SNF cannot fulfill these grants without the Volunteer. Plain and simple. Please understand that I want to the SNF to receive this much needed funding. I appreciate the OHV Staff and all that they do!! We just need to be told with more than words that we're valuable. We need to be told with resources. With materials, supplies, PPE, shovels, chainsaws, vehicle use reimbursements, mileage reimbursement. We need to be told that these grants are for us also as partners. Thank you for this consideration. McGarity Mike - 3/7/2019


I would like to request that a storage unit is purchased for the Prather Office for the OSV/OHV volunteers. Today we have a small bear box which is only large enough to hold 50 rolls of toilet paper in a bag and a box of cleaning supplies. We need a place to store our volunteer equipment, material, supplies etc. Todd Brockman - 3/8/2019


The Sierra National Forest should receive the grant they are requesting for ground operations. The work being done by this group affects positively the OHV experience. I have seen the benefit of the collaborative efforts by members of this organization and the volunteers that support it. The adopt a trail agreement between the SNF and volunteers help to keep OHV trails open and provide matching work hours for grants. “Through a combination of partnerships, volunteers, & various sources of funding, the Sierra National Forest (SNF) will undertake an OHV Ground Operations project that will encompass: survey & monitoring, road & trail maintenance, facilities operations & maintenance, & sign installation on the SNF designated trail system of 190 miles of motorized trails” (SNF OHV grant app). Significant work is needed so that legal OHV trails and forest roads are kept open for public use. The work funded by the grant will greatly reduce potential adverse conditions and provide the correct pathways for resolution to existing problems. Many of these roads and trails provide access to and from dispersed camping areas; including other recreational destinations for all users. Campsites conditions greatly affect the overall quality of recreational time spent in the forest and must be maintained and serviced. As a volunteer, I would like to see us have access to the volunteer supplies provided for by this grant for our work days. Having a storage container at the District office in Prather and having access to its contents would greatly increase the effectiveness of the work crews for projects. Paul Brady - 3/11/2019


I do not support the grant for the Sierra National Forest. Spending Green sticker money on Biologists salaries is not maintaining OHV Trails. Please do not approve there grants. Brian Hansen - 4/10/2019


I do not support the grants for the Sierra NF. Money spent on salaries that do not directly support OHV in the Forest. Please do not give them more money to close more of the Forest. Brian Hansen - 4/10/2019


Click to download letterStewards of the Sequoia- 5/6/2019


Click to download comment letterDavid Griffith, Chair, Alpine County Board of Supervisors - 4/17/2019


Click to download comment letterJohn Garamendi, Chair, Calaveras County Board of Supervisors - 4/26/2019


 

US FOREST PATROL DISTRICTS

USFS - Cleveland NF - Patrol District

I was reviewing this grant and something didn't make sense. You are asking for $43 per day for for 1260 days for LE and $28 per day for 1025 days for FPO. Are you sure you mean per day? Ed Stovin - 4/26/2019


 

Funding for law enforcement patrols is a critical part of ensuring that users stay on the designated road and trail system during the dryer periods on the Eldorado National Forest, and that users respect the winter OSV use designations. I fully support full funding for this grant proposal. I encourage the Forest to strengthen winter OSV patrolling and signing. 2 weeks ago I saw a number of snowmobile tracks leading into the closed area in Sayles Canyon. This area is difficult to patrol, and it appears that users are well aware of that! I also encourage the Forest to increase law enforcement patrols and necessary signing around the sensitive lava caps. These areas often appear devoid of vegetation in the summer with shallow, rocky soils. However they are covered with sensitive native plants that are easily damaged by off-route travel. Lester Lubetkin - 3/26/2019


This request will benefit the responsible OHV users in the INF and should be funded. Increasing the number of LEO's and especially FPO's in the INF will encourage responsible OHV use. Many, if not most, of the OHV INF users are not "locals" and typically are not familiar with which trails are open and which are not. As noted in the application some unauthorized trails are being used largely because they appear to be open. In some cases the signage is missing or not clear and in some cases the USFS official maps (aka"flimsies") are not accurate or conflict with commonly used maps of the area. While there are few knowing and willful violators who should be cited, in the past the INF LEOs and FPOs have concentrated on education and outreach to improve compliance rather than a major focus on issuing citations. Assuming that approach will continue, funding this request will improve the quality of OHV recreation in the INF. John R Shepherd - 4/2/2019


The inyo National Forest and surrounding area has become a magnet for the city dwellers that seek to escape the hub bub. The diversity of terrain and beautiful backcountry, coupled with media exposure, has drawn the OHV enthusiast from around the USA. Proper OHV use of this resource is critical to maintain this environment. The INF Patrol District has an immense responsibility as explained in this grant request. As Treadlightly says "Respected Access is Open Access" and many people today do not know how to respect our natural resources. The INF law enforcement helps to create the respect so that areas can remain open. The problem is grossly compounded by the improper INF administration of the 2009 Travel Management Decision. In 2009 the INF closed over 800 miles of OHV roads and committed to routinely review this decision. They were to make corrections in coordination with the user groups. The road closures was a massive undertaking and there were understandably numerous mistakes made. Failure to correct the mistakes leads to confusion and a lack of respect for the decision as a whole. Instead of correcting the mistakes, in 2015 the INF made an additional list of 800 roads they feel are not needed by using extremely erroneous data. This problem has been pointed out many times to the INF and they ignore it. This has been an added burden for the law enforcement efforts. Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club President. Mike Johnston - 4/13/2019


This request for funding should be approved. Inyo National Forest has experienced a huge increase in the numbers of people who recreate in Inyo and Mono counties and that trend it is going to continue. Most of these folks access the forest by vehicle. Public compliance with all forest laws and regulations ensures that we will have a bountiful healthy forest to enjoy for years to come. Enforcement needs all the help it can get to properly patrol an area this size and this remote. The contacts I have had with their officers in the field have been great.

The Butte County Federal/State Land Use Coordinating Committee (LUCC)) supports this grant application. The LUCC is a Board appointed (Brown Act) committee representing Butte County citizens’ interests in the areas of recreation, forest management, tourism/economic development and environment/watershed, working closely with the Plumas and Lassen National Forests and other public land managers. These comments were developed at a public meeting with input from the public. The LUCC is supportive of law enforcement grants and related activities on OHV utilized public lands, and of the need for equipment designed to effectively traverse these challenging roads and trails. Most importantly, the LUCC would like to see increased OHV patrols during holiday and weekend late afternoons and nights to minimize incidents of resource damage. Butte County Coordinating Committee - 4/22/2019


The Butte County Federal/State Land Use Coordinating Committee (LUCC) supports this grant application. The LUCC is a Board appointed (Brown Act) committee representing Butte County citizens’ interests in the areas of recreation, forest management, tourism/economic development and environment/watershed, working closely with the Plumas and Lassen National Forests and other public land managers. These comments were developed at a public meeting with input from the public. The LUCC is supportive of law enforcement grants and related activities on OHV utilized roads and public lands, and of the need for equipment designed to effectively traverse these challenging roads and trails. Most importantly, the FAC would like to see increased OHV patrols during holiday and weekend late afternoons and nights to minimize incidents of resource damage. Butte County Coordinating Committee - 4/22/2019


i support this grant. The LE staff do good work on this popular urban forest and make it safer for all of us out on the OHV routes. Mark Borchert - 5/4/2019


I would like to comment on the SBNF Patrol grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. This is a good grant, needed to keep order in a much loved forest. The choice of CRF450Ls is great. I hope the bikes workout well for you. I really don't understand the night vision goggles. Is there OHV activity at night? I'd love to hear your justification for this. I'll see you out there when the gates open. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


These additional funds from this grant have been needed for a long time. Educating OHV riders and enforcing laws on public lands on weekends and holidays are in the best interest of everyone. Father’s Day in early-mid June is a holiday that needs additional coverage, besides those listed. More harm is done to resources and trails early in the year when soils are wet if illegal trails are ridden on, or even if riding irresponsibly on legal trails. Funding this grant makes everyone safer. Karen wilson - 4/29/2019


LOCAL

 CITIES

This relates to Item 4 in the LE grant. It isn't clear where the full-time and part-time law enforcement officers are employed. Are they all California City Police Officers, former or retired police officers or sworn officers from outside of the community? As of January 2019 the California City Police Department (CCPD) was operating with only 23% of the number officers they once employed. There have been a few hires but their numbers are still less than half of what were once employed. How can the CCPD adequately cover the habited area of California City with the demand that OHV places on the department? Some property owners are concerned that their special public safety assessments are being spent in the purported 180 sq.mi. that encompasses the OVH activities. And they may be right. But complaints about trespassing on private property by visitors to the OHV area have often been expressed to the City Council of California City leaves one to ask, is the LE presence effective in preventing that activity? SUGGESTION: Hire officers for the OVH community only, paid by the OHV grants and permit activities only. Leave the General Fund to pay for Law Enforcement for the residents and tax-payers. If that requires an increase in the permit fees to cover these costs and matching funds, then that is the cost of doing business for keeping folks safe in the 180 sq. mi. OHV activity area. Doing this would place only a minimal demand on the CCPD through mutual aid for extraordinary situations.. Law Enforcement - Page 1 Item 1. There have been no self-initiated public reports to the taxpayers and residents of California City to support the claim of OHV versus other LE calls in the community. Thank you for the opportunity to comment. Jennifer Wood - 3/17/2019


The visitors to our OHV community are always welcome to our city. They enjoy the assets that we have to offer the diverse riding community. We are happy to have them here. During a review of the factsheet for the Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program -2018-2019 and each of the associated projects included in this cycle, it becomes clear that the price to cover the OHV program and to ensure public safety to those who are encouraged to enjoy our community are exceptionally high. The total project cost for all projects is $1,151,405. Of that $358,414 will be local match. Of that amount some of those costs will be in-kind matches or cash. No break-out of in-kind versus cash has been provided. That information would help the locals understand how much and where actual cash is required. Many local businesses are now selling OHV permits. Are our local businesses seeing a measurable increase in their sales receipts as a result? There have not been any self-initiated reports by the California City Police Department or OHV staff to provide that information to the general public on a regular basis. It would be helpful to know if the additional OHV traffic to the community is helping our local economy. Particularly knowing how much it costs to support these guests to our city. Jennifer Wood - 3/17/2019


GRANT MONEY EQUIPMENT SUGGESTIONS: I finally have some to pass on. MIL-SPEC BINOCULARS-WELL MADE PROFESSIONAL BINOCULARS. I suggest buying them for the vehicles and not the people. Less units needed and we always roll out in the vehicles anyway. DRONE(S)-i know there is a whole headache about somebody has to be trained etc. How about we go around that by finding someone who has one and knows how to use it and then recruit them as a volunteer who never suits up with us and we refer to as a citizen drone operator. Might work have to run it by Bettenhausen, but a drone is the best way to find lost and missing people in a cost effective manner. They have multi filter lenses FLIR included so you get thermal, etc. Invaluable to any SAR team out there. Hand held GPS Units-tom-toms or whatever is most cost effective and works most importantly out in Borax BIll. Again buy units for the vehicles and not individual people. less units needed and only needed in the vehicle. If one has to leave the vehicle to get back they take the unit with to show them how to get back. Round up and bring back at night like the radios. More to come. BTW-Whats my new Delta number? Citizen Kane - 3/11/2019


To Whom It May Concern, As the Chief of Police for the City of El Centro, I support and strongly endorse this grant application. The ability for our city staff to utilize mini-bike riding as a way to bring our youth to a program, where they will learn life-long skills in a variety of areas is unique. This program has proven to be successful for many years and has been very effective with our underprivileged youth. The City of El Centro takes great pride in offering programs that reach out to those in need of guidance, support and purpose. Our youth will shape our future and we need to invest in them. Please accept this letter of endorsement on behalf of the El Centro Police Department. Respectfully, Brian Johnson Chief of Police El Centro Police Department 760. 337.4523 Brian Johnson - 3/6/2019


I am the Senior Director for the Imperial County Office of Education-Alternaitve Education school. This program has supported many youth throughout the Imperial County. We hav referred many of our under-served students to participate in this program as an incentive to improve their attendance and academic skills. All student who participate in this program improve their academic and attendance by 100%. Parents are also more involve in the lives of their students by participating in parent activities and learning the importance of responsibility and safety. The Imperial County Office of Education is in full support of this program. This program is a true testament to changing youth and families lives in the city of El Centro. Without this program, students would not have the opportunity to learn safety procedures nor the importance of being responsible. This program serves many underserved children and riding outdoors helps them therapeutically feel safe. Monalisa Vitela - 3/17/2019


This is an exceptional program for the youth in our area. It allows "at-risk" kids the opportunity to take a break from their challenging home life's and get outdoors to recreate in a safe a informative environment. In addition to the extremely exciting opportunity to learn how to recreate outdoors with off road motorcycles, participants of the program learn life skills, mechanical understanding of the motorcycles, responsibility of the care and maintenance of the motorcycles, respect for the outdoors and the environment, and team building among their group of peers. These are all extremely important elements that make this program a winner. The program staff are beyond dedicated to the program and spend countless hours and go above and beyond (even on their personal time) to ensure its success. I have personally met some of the program participants and the sheer excitement and enthusiasm they portray to be part of this program is truly inspiring. These programs are needed to show our youth ways to spend their time and energy in a positive manner other than the alternative choices that face most of our "at-risk" you community. Travis Coyne - 4/9/2019


This is an exceptional program for the youth in our area. It allows "at-risk" kids the opportunity to take a break from their challenging home life's and get outdoors to recreate in a safe a informative environment. In addition to the extremely exciting opportunity to learn how to recreate outdoors with off road motorcycles, participants of the program learn life skills, mechanical understanding of the motorcycles, responsibility of the care and maintenance of the motorcycles, respect for the outdoors and the environment, and team building among their group of peers. These are all extremely important elements that make this program a winner. The program staff are beyond dedicated to the program and spend countless hours and go above and beyond (even on their personal time) to ensure its success. I have personally met some of the program participants and the sheer excitement and enthusiasm they portray to be part of this program is truly inspiring. These programs are needed to show our youth ways to spend their time and energy in a positive manner other than the alternative choices that face most of our "at-risk" youth community. Travis Coyne - 4/9/2019


This is a great grant request to help some kids in El Centro get motivated to do better. I volunteered with them one Saturday and enjoyed myself. The staff do a great job of keeping the kids orderly. I would be happy to help again, just even in hotter weather, let me know ahead. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


As an avid hiker and volunteer in our public lands, I fully support LAPD's Off-Road Unit's application for grant funding. Their presence and activities create a positive environment of lawfulness, promote public safety and education, and protect public resources for the beneficial use and enjoyment of all. Thank you. Kristin Sabo - 3/20/2019


As an avid hiker and volunteer in our public lands, I fully support LAPD's Off-Road Unit's application for grant funding. Their presence and activities create a positive environment of lawfulness, promote public safety and education, and protect public resources for the beneficial use and enjoyment of all. Thank you. Kristin Sabo - 3/20/2019


I would like to comment on the Ridgecrest Police grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. Looks good, but you should have some line items for safety gear for the officer's using the ATVs. It's easy to spend $800 on safety gear for one person. I would assume you would have maybe four operators?

As President of the Eastern Sierra 4X4 Club I get calls throughout the year from people asking questions about where to take the OHV/ATV in the Mammoth area. There is a conundrum of trails but no coherent system/loops/routes to direct people to. I am really glad to see a town/city step forward and help the OHV user groups. This type of planning can help to keep the users on designated trails, reduce abuses, educate and promote safe enjoyable motorized recreation. I hope that other communities in the Eastern Sierra will follow this example! Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


 
COUNTIES

Amador County Sheriffs Office Law Enforcement Grant Reference Grant G18-03-50LO1 2018-2019 SUPPORT As an Off Highway Vehicle user and resident of Amador County, our family supports this grant as submitted. In light of personal interface with ACSO officers in this area over the years, they continue to educate the public on this type of family recreation in a legal and responsible manner. Education over citation, depending on the situation of course, continues to view law enforcement as a friend, and not an enemy especially in the eyes of our young people and children. Contained within the Project Cost Estimate, I am pleased that ACSO is NOT citing any Over Time costs within the PCE this year under 1.1 of Program Expenses. This allow more hours of service to the public. As the area of coverage continues to attract more out of County users, LE services are needed especially during the summer holiday periods. I believe ACSO should consider submitting a Grant for Education & Safety, which could include the Amador Search & Rescue in funding for supplies and equipment in the future. This could assist in a situation involving OHV Recreation. David Pickett & Family Pioneer, Ca. Life Member District 36 Motorcycle Sport Committee, Inc. cc: ACSO, Amador County Board of Supervisors DAVID G PICKETT - 3/8/2019


I would just like to say that the Calaveras County Sheriffs department is doing a great job with the resources available to them and if they need additional funding it should be awarded to them. They have to cover a tremendous amount of terrain and are doing an amazing job. Dan Cahoon - 3/12/2019


I fully support the Shasta County Sheriff's Office for request of 2 snowmobiles, sled and snow gear. Being a member of the SAR snowmobile team it would be extremely beneficial for the SO to have their own equipment to conduct winter snow rescue operations. It is critical for Deputies to have appropriate clothing and equipment as well. Lisa Dailey - 3/19/2019


I am happy to support the Shasta County Sheriff's OHV Grant request for snowmobiles and additional equipment. As a member and team leader of the Shasta County Sheriff's Search and Rescue Snowmobile Team and a Volunteer State Parks Groomer operator, I believe it is essential that the SCSO have their own over snow vehicles to manage, participate and assist our team during search and rescue operations. When we have training as well as on search missions, the Sheriff deputies must "borrow" one or more of our members equipment to accompany us on assignments. We look forward to assisting the SCSO in training of personnel who would be assigned to the snowmobiles. On the aspect of patrol, currently NO law enforcement (including Lassen National Forest Law Enforcement Officers where our Ashpan OSV Park is located in Shasta County) has ever patrolled our system for Green Sticker compliance or routine safety checks. We have noticed several non-compliant users and look forward to an official law enforcement and safety presence on our system. Thank you for considering this Grant request, Ron Keown Ron Keown - 4/5/2019


It's great to see this moving forward Craig Anderson - 3/5/2019


This looks to be well thought out and planned at a minimal cost. Nice work Craig Anderson - 3/5/2019


As a resident of Yolo County, I believe this OHV Park would not only bring visitors into our county to enjoy the outdoor recreational landscape that we have to offer but would also increase a family oriented sport that is badly needed. It would be a great asset to Yolo County to have a park that we can be proud of...right here! Derek Winn - 3/5/2019


I love more OHV, Lets Go! Barry L Newman - 3/5/2019


As a long time dirt bike and ATV enthusiast I would love to see Yolo County to have an OHV Park, for many years I have drove many miles to go to other OHV parks, praire city, Holliser Hills. and Carnage. Yolo has Many people that this area would serve. This would be closer for my self and my friends to use almost daily. I sincerly hope you consider Yoly county with a grant. Bruce Warren - 3/9/2019


On behalf of the Cache Creek Conservancy Board and staff, I respectfully submit our comments in support of the County of Yolo's OHV planning grant request. My 15-member, stakeholder board members and staff are dedicated to the Conservancy's mission of protecting, restoring, and enhancing the Cache Creek watershed, and in particular, its riparian environment. Because the creek is ephemeral and changes terrain with each flood season, it is a favorite for OHV riders. Unfortunately, those same fun rides create environmental chaos in the creek's stream bed--destroying sensitive habitat for may species, some of which are species of special concern or threatened. Furthermore, additional damage is done to the environment through gas or oil line leaks or trash left by riders. There is concern about the noise, and what is certainly the case at the Cache Creek Nature Preserve, a disrespect for property lines. Although it is posted no OHV's in the Nature Preserve, those signs are ignored or taken down, and we have had irrigation lines and plantings destroyed by OHV trespassers; many of the projects destroyed by OHV trespassers are funded by government grants. For the reasons stated above, the Cache Creek Conservancy supports Yolo County's efforts to find a place where OHV riders can have a challenging and fun ride outside of the Cache Creek. We sincerely hope the grants management team will select Yolo County for funding. Thank you for the opportunity to comment. Nancy Ullrey - 5/1/2019


The popularity of OHV has grown in the past years, more and more families are enjoying the public lands. Becoming a land steward is thru education of the public and they will become stewards. Providing WAG bags, Spill kits, and trash bags enhance the view of keep the public lands clean and open, Pack it in pack it out. Glenn Reynolds - 3/8/2019


This is a good grant to support a county with a lot of OHV. I don't understand $15000 for pens, sports bottles, rulers, flags. I also don't understand $3300 for a laptop. I just bought a Chromebook for $180 and can get Windows Office for $99. I don't think this is the right category for the purchase of a sand rail. How do you use a rail for outreach? Otherwise its a good grant. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


This is a good grant to protect OHV in Imperial County. There are an awful lot of visitors here to look after. The rail item seems appropriate given how much land there is to patrol. I don't understand the rail both here and in the safety application. Are these for the same rail? I don't understand the "Staff-AeroSquadron Volunteers". What do they do? Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


This request by the Inyo County Sheriffs Office (ICSO) of funding for patrolling, public education, replacement of worn-out equipment and law enforcement in OHV areas should be approved. A consistent law enforcement presence in the many remote areas of Inyo County is essential to maintain responsible OHV recreation. AB-682 provides a great opportunity enhance OHV recreational opportunities in Inyo County by linking existing off-highway trails and trail-heads with local services and facilities. Realistically, the improved OHV recreational opportunities of represented by AB 682 (Adventure Trail Program) will only be accepted if the trial period shows that it enhances responsible use and does not significantly degrade other recreational uses. Strengthening the ICSO presence in the remote areas of Inyo County will improve the chances that AB682 will be successful and everyone will benefit: both OHV and non-OHV users. John Shepherd - 3/26/2019


The ATV is one of the primary vehicle used by hunters in this area and we are fortunate to have many trails that go deep into the backcountry. It is very important that anybody going into the backcountry has a reliable vehicle, especially law enforcement. This grant is a very good use of the OHMVR funds. Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club appreciates all the help that the OHV community gets from the Inyo County Sheriff's Dept. Carma and Jeff are familiar with the OHV uses in Inyo County and also the efforts needed to help maintain respect for our resources. ES4x4 Club President Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


This request for funding should be approved. Inyo and Mono counties have experienced a huge increase in the numbers of people who recreate here and that trend it is going to continue. Most of these folks access the area by vehicle. Public compliance with all resource laws and regulations ensures that we will have a bountiful healthy area to enjoy for years to come. ICSO has had an effective OHV patrol for years, funded by these grants, and that should continue. Enforcement needs all the help it can get to properly patrol an area of this size and that is this remote. The contacts I have had with their officers in the field have been great. Pat Woods - 5/4/2019


Kern County identified a need for an OHV area a number of years ago, and a substantial effort was made and a location identified for such a facility. Although the project failed to progress the need for such a facility remains. Locating a site for such a facility is an extremely challenging task due to the multiple environmental requirements that must be met plus the neighbor objections that inevitably surface with any development project. Nevertheless the effort needs to be made because the price of land and development pressure makes locations increasingly difficult to find over time. Regarding this application, the Division may have comments about material and supply costs that appear to be indirect costs and should be re categorized. I am assuming that the contract would be let through some type of RFP process, although this isn't mentioned. bruce whitcher - 4/1/2019


Kern County Sheriff's Office

I would like to comment on the Kern County grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. I can't tell you how happy this request makes me. I have reviewed dozens of grants this year and only one other is interested in new opportunity. I wish you the best of luck in this endeavor and if you need any help from OHV users, please contact CORVA. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


 

The Butte County Federal/State Land Use Coordinating Committee (LUCC) supports this grant application. The LUCC is a Board appointed (Brown Act) committee representing Butte County citizens’ interests in the areas of recreation, forest management, tourism/economic development and environment/watershed, working closely with the Plumas and Lassen National Forests and other public land managers. These comments were developed at a public meeting with input from the public. The LUCC is supportive of law enforcement grants and related activities on OHV utilized public lands, and of the need for equipment designed to effectively traverse these challenging roads and trails. The LUCC is especially concerned with law enforcement presence during OHV peak use times (weekends and holidays, especially late afternoon and nights) to prevent resource damage on public lands. Butte County Coordinating Committee - 4/22/2019


To Whom It May Concern: This is an incredibly self serving program for land owners in the AV. It only benefits someone with alot land. The AV is inundated with crime that could be addressed with these funds. Please do not run the program again. Use the money for something important. Make our stores safe again. No panhandling at Stater Bros, Walmart, or any of the stores. Use it for that not to keep dirt bikes off of some properties. That is ridiculous. Think about it. Really. We have WAY bigger problems here. Thank you, Sarah Rogers, AV home owner.- 3/5/2019


I am writing in support of this Grant. As a long time resident of the Santa Clarita area I have witnessed first hand the nuisance and destruction of land caused by illegal off road vehicle use. Hillsides are permanently damaged and scarred which can cause erosion. The illegal use of these vehicles also disturbs the peace of people like me and my family who live near the open spaces. The off road team in Santa Clarita is vital to enforcing laws related to illegal OHV use and I encourage the full funding of this Grant Ron Olfert - 3/5/2019


Please consider my comments when applying for grant funds. I feel that the Offroad patrols are a complete waste of taxpayer dollars. Do you know what AMA District 37 is?Do you know the families that compromise District 37? These families are raising children that respect and train to compete at the highest level in all of the USA. Do you know how many #1 plates championship holders are from Agua Dulce, Acton and AV? Nothing pains me more to hear them called disrespectful, trespassing,law breakers. What is even more disgraceful is LASD has a "offroad team", have they ever reached out to the local teens and supported the kids' accomplishments? National Hare and Hound Champion(s)Big6 Grand prix top 10.West Coast Grand Prix #1 (s)and Desert points all reside in the area. Their parents pay taxes. Many of these kids are on Dean's list and participate in school sports. This area leaves countless hours on young men hands. Rather than sitting indoors gaming sun up to sun up, Mx kids are for the most part chasing goals. If they find themselves with a school holiday or vacation and decide to ride to a friends house or on private property than leave them alone. As a parent that has traveled tens of thousands of miles to races all over District 37, we already try to keep the kids from riding at home. We are not asking for open riding. Just stop chasing these kids. Tax dollars would be better spent staking out mail thieves. I say absolutely NO to useless patrols and unnecessary funding. Robert & Melinda Endress Agua Dulce - 3/5/2019


To Whom It May Concern: I am a resident of Agua Dulce, CA and would like to comment on the pending grant application through the California State Parks and Recreation Division that would increase funding for the sheriff's department team that enforces illegal OHV riding complaints and conducts routine patrols in the Acton/Agua Dulce areas. My husband and I moved to Agua Dulce 18 years ago. We have raised our two children here where we have all been able to enjoy the safety and outdoor lifestyle of a small rural town. We, as a family, are avid off-road enthusiasts. We have owned various OHV's, including street and off-road motorcycles, ATV's and side-by-side 4-wheel vehicles that have brought us years of enjoyment on our property and in designated OHV riding areas. I do not believe we have an illegal off-road problem in our community. I frequent both the Agua Dulce and Acton areas for shopping, school activities, social events, parades and fairs, visiting friends and neighbors and have never seen any evidence of excessive OHV nuisance that would warrant increasing the size of the enforcement team that already exists. I do believe, however, there has been a major increase in general crime that is in need of urgent attention by local law enforcement. The sheriff's department should be seeking increased funding for more deputies and sub-stations in our rural areas to create a deterrent by being present 24/7 in our community and not the rare occasional sighting of a patrol car passing through that currently exists. I see reports every day on social media and hear from friends and neighbors that we, as a community, are being victimized. Daily reports of mailboxes being broken into and mail being stolen. Cars being broken into, and even homes. Downtown Acton and Acton Park are well-known locations for drug sales and drug use. I personally have had to report abandoned cars, usually severely damaged (presumably stolen), that have been left on the the side of the roads and in our local shopping center parking lot. There has been a marked increase in graffiti that thankfully a local resident removes personally and documents and reports to the sheriff's department. Illegal dumping on Agua Dulce Canyon and under the 14 freeway overpass is now a regular occurrence. I believe that California Highway Patrol is responsible for patrolling our streets for vehicle code violations, but I can personally attest to the fact that there are people speeding around on our unlit, two-lane roads like it's a road race rally track. I have seen the off road sheriff's deputies on their motorcycles in town at the market, presumably resting and getting refreshments, and have seen them posted on the hillside near a friend's home, but have never seen or heard a single report of them needing to enforce what is considered criminal activity or a threat to the safety of our community. I don't believe the sheriff's department should be focusing on grants for more illegal OHV enforcement and their application should be denied. They should be addressing general crime statistics in our area that are jeopardizing the safety and security of our community and families. Thank you for your consideration of my thoughts and feelings on this matter. Lynda Davidson - 3/5/2019


We strongly support continued grants, staffing and equipment to support the AV OHV Team. They are much needed in our rural community with limited enforcement directed at illegal OHV riding. As a rural area just outside Los Angeles, we are a magnet for illegal quads, 4 wheelers and dirt bikes. As an equestrian community with thousands of horse riders, safety is paramount. Illegal OHV activity in our area threatens our safety, destroys limited resources and is in direct conflict with our SEA (Significant Ecological Area) designation, now is the time to provide increased funding to protect our safety, wildlife resources and preserve our rural lifestyle. Thank You, Colin & Karen O'Reilly Acton, CA. - 3/6/2019


Not only that we need off road enforcement, we must have it. We live right next to this circus. The reports of assaults, vandalism, illegal shootings that we made are already inches thick with Lancaster Sheriff’s Station. Our gate locks and chains were cut and barriers taken down so that the bikers and illegal shooter can get through to our property. My wife was assaulted when she was investigating an illegal fire. Her phone was knocked down and broken. The illegal shooting and garbage dumping happens all day, every day. Look at the photographs attached and the youtube video below. This is not a shooting area (all private properties) and not an OHV park (bikers, ATVs and quads have destroyed flora and fauna in the area completely). It’s escalating and we need serious protection and enforcement. We have no patrols in this area whatsoever. The area to cover is between 110st West and Munz Ranch Road and Avenue I and Aqueduct (Proposed Ave K). Most of the violations occur between 130st West and Munz Ranch Road. We emphatically hope that the grant will be approved and we will see patrols on a regular basis. Alex and Anna Van Kovn - 4/15/2019


The central valley is in dire need of a quality OHV riding facility. This project would fill this need where it is sorely missing. This project would provide a family oriented destination for the OHV sport as well as providing camp and other types of recreation opportunities. There would also be a positive financial affect for Madera County. We can't build it fast enough! Steve Cowdrey Stewards of the Sierra National Forest Steve Cowdrey - 3/29/2019


I would like to comment on Madera Counties grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. This is a fantastic project that I truly hope comes to be. If you need any help, from area design to public relations, please contact CORVA and we will do all we can to help you. Thanks for moving on this and best of luck. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


Mono County has extensive ATV trails that are sometimes referred to as spaghetti. I am a very experienced OHV enthusiast and can easily get lost. The Town of Mammoth Lakes and Mono County are moving forward on plans to create a Sustainable Recreation Office and further promote tourism for the area. This grant will help to maintain OHV/ATV activities as a sustainable recreation in Mono County. Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club President. Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


I strongly support the Napa County Sheriff’s Department’s 2018-2019 application for grant funds from the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Division. I believe it is quite clear that OHV/motorcycle users, property owners and the great majority of individuals seeking recreation activities in the Knoxville Recreation Area look upon Napa County’s OHV law enforcement team patrols as being a very important and necessary activity. Lawlessness would return to a dangerous and unacceptable level without the Napa County Sheriff’s Department OHV Team’s presence in the Knoxville Area and Devil’s Head County Road in particular. This includes trespass and damage to private property, unlawful OHV/motorcycle use, illegal hunting and poaching, garbage dumping, the unlawful and unsafe discharge of firearms and marijuana cultivation. In addition, the OHV team has played a large role in reducing OHV/motorcycle accidents and the unlicensed operation of same. I say this from my standpoint as a long-term property and homeowner on Devil’s Head Road. BLM does not have adequate law enforcement staffing to provide a meaningful presence in the Knoxville Area and therefore, must rely on the Napa County Sheriff’s Department for law enforcement. With an increasing number of deer hunters using OHV/motorcycles, breakdowns and accidents are also increasing. It is easy to become disoriented and lost in such a rugged and remote area and may involve required search and rescue operations by the Napa County OHV team. The planned addition of two new members to the Napa County OHV team is a very positive step and will help with increased law enforcement patrols. Joseph Erasmy Devil’s Head Road Napa County Joseph Erasmy - 5/1/2019


I support this program-please fund it! We all need to find alternatives to cars... John Pang - 3/16/2019


1. Under program expenses, 1.1 Staff Deputy Overtime and 1.2 Staff Sergeant Overtime. Are these overtime rates and if so, why? 2. Under Materials, 3.4 “Reversible wench” perhaps it should be “winch”. I don’t think the sheriffs office should be buying wenches, probably get you in trouble. :) Scot Campbell - 3/6/2019


Placer Co SO covers a VERY LARGE area in rough terrain accessible by a network of fire roads, 4WD roads, and has a considerable amount of OHV trails that span many jurisdictions. They are truly in need given their mandate of public safety, SAR, recovery, investigations, and law enforcement. They have the personnel and the training to perform all of those duties and I know they would benefit from adding more off road vehicles to facilitate the access to the more remote areas. Please give PCSO consideration in their grant request. Thank you, Don Romero Loomis, CA Don J Romero - 3/6/2019


The Outdoor Recreation Leadership Program at Feather River College supports the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) and their grant application. SBTS will employ local Plumas County residents, Feather River College students, and high school students to complete the trail maintenance on this valuable resource. The work that the Stewardship does to build and maintain trails in our local areas directly affects the vivacity and economy of Plumas County. These trails are a great example of a valuable recreational asset on our forest. It offers an incredible opportunity for participants to explore the outdoors and build deeper connections to the environment. These trails invite hikers, bikers, and campers to explore locally, by staying, and playing in our local area. SBTS’ has a long history and legacy of safely leading volunteers on their projects. This not only gets the community involved, but it also builds stewards and investment in public lands. The efforts of the Stewardship and its volunteers have a direct, positive effect on our community. Please continue to support them in their vision of preserving responsible access to our area. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Saylor Flett -- Saylor Flett | Instructor | Guide | Photographer | Mountain Lover Outdoor Recreation Leadership Feather River College 570 Golden Eagle Ave. Quincy, Ca 95971 sflett@frc.edu | www.frc.edu/ORL | www.saylorflett.com p: 530.283.0202 Ext.216 | f: 530.283.3757 Visit us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/frc.orl Saylor Flett - 4/4/2019


The Outdoor Recreation Leadership Program at Feather River College supports the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) and their grant application. SBTS will employ local Plumas County residents, Feather River College students, and high school students to complete the trail maintenance on this valuable resource. The work that the Stewardship does to build and maintain trails in our local areas directly affects the vivacity and economy of Plumas County. These trails are a great example of a valuable recreational asset on our forest. It offers an incredible opportunity for participants to explore the outdoors and build deeper connections to the environment. These trails invite hikers, bikers, and campers to explore locally, by staying, and playing in our local area. SBTS’ has a long history and legacy of safely leading volunteers on their projects. This not only gets the community involved, but it also builds stewards and investment in public lands. The efforts of the Stewardship and its volunteers have a direct, positive effect on our community. Please continue to support them in their vision of preserving responsible access to our area. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Saylor Flett -- Saylor Flett | Instructor | Guide | Photographer | Mountain Lover Outdoor Recreation Leadership Feather River College 570 Golden Eagle Ave. Quincy, Ca 95971 sflett@frc.edu | www.frc.edu/ORL | www.saylorflett.com p: 530.283.0202 Ext.216 | f: 530.283.3757 Visit us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/frc.orl Saylor Flett - 4/4/2019


Love the trails that Sierra Buttes helps to provide. We love making a weekend out of it on our mountain bikes and then hitting a restaurant :) They do a lot of good for everyone and the community ! Also the ideas I have read on the new bike trails around Quincy are a fantastic idea. Quincy is a great little town. This will go along way towards helping the town and tourist Thanks !!!! Doug Moore - 4/6/2019


The trails in and around Mt. Hough are very important and it is critical to keep them open for public use. Trails attract visitors and visitors spend money, which helps the economy in struggling rural California counties. Trails provide recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, create local employment, and well built trails provide sustainable recreation opportunities that protect the watershed and require less maintenance. Lynn Baumgartner - 4/6/2019


The trails in and around Mt. Hough are very important and it is critical to keep them open for public use. Trails attract visitors and visitors spend money, which helps the economy in struggling rural California counties. Trails provide recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, create local employment, and well built trails provide sustainable recreation opportunities that protect the watershed and require less maintenance. Lynn Baumgartner - 4/6/2019


To Whom It May Concern, I support keeping the Mt Hough trail system open, accessible and maintained. Myself,my friends, my family, and the mountain bike community have enjoyed this trail system. It has contributed to my health well-being, life satisfaction, and overall quality of life. Mountain bike trail systems contribute to the local economies and have proven to be sustainable economic engines and help create jobs as well. Plus, they help people to connect to the land and reduce anxiety, increase creativity, and increase attention span. It is for these reasons that I am supporting the Mt Hough trail system. Thank you Kevin Tatsugawa - 4/6/2019


Please support the trails for public access! Mountain biking in this area is the best. I'm looking forward to visiting with my family. Joel Winter - 4/6/2019


I live in the bay area. I've recently started riding dirtbikes & mountain bikes on Mt. Hough trails. Great trail system and SBTS is doing a great job helping the Forest Service create & maintain them. Please help fund SBTS work. Mt. Hough is a gem & needs our OHV funds. Thanks for your support. Sincerely, Mike Chaplin - 4/6/2019


As a second home owner and tax payer near Mt Hough please keep funding mantenance and growth in the area. The recreation is well managed and important to the community and growing user groups. Dustin Young - 4/6/2019


The Mt. Hough trail system is an integral part of a sustainable healthy economy. As Mining and Forestry become more and more costly, other activities will provide the money for survival. The trails being developed and maintained by Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship,in partnership with the USFS and other stakeholders are a key component in growing a diverse healthy community. Please support these efforts by approving this request. Stuart Wik - 4/6/2019


Maintaince and expansion of the trail system is greatly needed. These OHV areas are needed more than ever after the past fire seasons. We need these geants. Taylor Tobler - 4/6/2019


Hi, Glas to see the state keeps supporting STBS in the developement of the great trails being built!! We love vacationing in the area for mountain bike and we bring groups over to share the experience. Everybody loves it! Hope to be back soon! Thanks for the support! rigel rivera - 4/6/2019


I support of keeping trails open, accessible and maintained. It's important for the following reasons: Recreation opportunities for visitors and locals Creates local employment Creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance Keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed Lisa Wilson - 4/6/2019


MT. Hough trail system is a "gold nugget of Lost Sierra". I hope that is preserved and expended. Tomasz Olesiejuk - 4/6/2019


I support mtn bike trail development in the Mt. Hough area. Great for economic development for the area! Clayton Dewberry - 4/6/2019


I strongly support Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship and their grant application for Plumas County / Mt Hough. Through their efforts, Quincy has benefited through increased tourism which has contributed to the local economy as recreational users frequent restaurants and convenience stores in the area. In addition, they have created local employment and established a presence in Quincy through their Lost Sierra headquarters. SBTS does more than build trails. They build communities. Steve Minniear - 4/6/2019


Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has a long standing history of providing trail maintenance and trail building in the Downieville and Mt. Hough area. The trails provide access for OHV users and Mountain Bikers, who live in the area as well as those who travel to this beautiful area. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship helps build sustainable trails that require less maintenance and more fun for the users. Visitors help stimulate the local economy by creating jobs and putting money into local businesses during prime riding season. The Plumas County Ground Operations grant will provide funds to maintain 60 miles of trail in the Mount Hough area. Please support and approve the grant and cooperative agreement for the Pulmas County Ground Operations. Colin Page - 4/7/2019


I support this grant to provide on the ground work for the Mt. Hough, Snake Lake, Clairemont and Nelson Creek trail maintenance. A strong and robust multi-use trail system will attract more visitors and tourists to the area. This will help to improve the local economy and provide long term employment opportunities in the recreation industry. There is an urgent need for more multi-use single track trail, as demand currently out weighs supply. Trail work will also provide local employment opportunities. Frank Havlik - 4/7/2019


Thank you for your support of the Mt Hough trail system and the vision of the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. Daniel Kuhns - 4/7/2019


I use the trails on Mt. Hough and surrounding area on a weekly basis. The trails in this area the most significant contributing factor to me living and working in Plumas County. This organization creates much needed employment opportunities for our community. And this trails promote tourism to our region. And would love to see even more trails created. SBTS is putting Quincy on the map for mountain biking tourism. Eric Caubo - 4/8/2019


These trails are a vital part of the local economies. People from all over the West Coast come to enjoy them! Please support their continued maintenance and construction. Thanks, DOUG MANN - 4/8/2019


This is a letter in support of the grants for Plumas County's Mt Hough Trail System Ground Operations. The trail system at Mt. Hough is very important for the local economy and I enjoy using the trails on both mountain bike and motorcycle. Thank you, kevin Sevier - 4/8/2019


I support funding for trail maintenance in Plumas County in the Mt. Hough area. The work done by the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship creates jobs and boosts the economy in Plumas County, particularly in the Quincy area. Jamie Bate - 4/9/2019


I strongly support funding for Mt. Hough trails, which provide recreation opportunities for visitors and locals alike, while creating local recreation based employment. It also provides new places for me to volunteer, and keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed. Thank you. Jeff Barker - 4/10/2019


This is a very important project for the local community and recreational trail users. It will help stimulate the local economy while creating local jobs. A win win for all. Please approve this grant to keep trails open while creating and maintaining sustainable trails systems that require less maintenance. Thanks for your support Johnnie Smith - 4/10/2019


Granting these funds will help Plumas County bring in more tourists and provide us locals with healthy recreational opportunities. Maintaining trails means less erosion in the watershed. Trail crews provide local jobs and job training for local youth. The Nelson Creek Trail is a great historic project! Thanks, Bruce Bruce Livingston - 4/13/2019


We’ve been coming here as a family and with friends for years and continue to get more involved with the community and trails here. We are active members now with SBTS. Funding will help with safety, building jobs, ensuring the preservation of the forest by having dedicated trails while protecting vegetation and water, and enable families to enjoy the beauty for years to come. Please support the funding request. Best Regards, Scott Steele Scott steele - 4/13/2019


I am 67 yrs old and an avid mountain bike rider. It is vital to my mental and physical well being. Please support the Sierra Buttes Stewardship in their maintenance efforts On the Quincy trails. Thanks Chris Ketner - 4/13/2019


The Sierra is an amazing resource that needs to be accessible to the public in a responsible manner so it can be enjoyed by everyone forever. Vitally, keeping this particular area open for recreation provides much needed economic input to one of the most under severed areas of the state. By supporting SBTS in their trail maintenance works you will create long term, cost effective, sustainable access to this wonderful region. Olli Blackburn - 4/13/2019


I strongly support this grant to continue to provide great recreational access to all local residents and visitors. I live riding my bike there as do all of my friends and colleagues. Please keep the trails maintaned Erik T deBrun - 4/13/2019


Mt Hough is in need of more trailwork. As a Mt Bike rider, its great to see the organized trail developement of Mt Hough, vs random, unsanctioned trails. Lets all get on the same page, building sustainable low maintenance trails, that are routed correctly, and mitigate trail conlict. Everyone should use this area for recreation. Todd McMahon - 4/13/2019


this use of public funds is invaluable. dollars go directly into creating jobs, sustaining trails and the local economy and keeping the experience safe and fun for all. anthony kordonowy - 4/13/2019


I’m writing in support of the application of Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship to conduct trail maintenance in the MT Hough district. SBTS is a world class organization that has delivered jobs, economic vitality, recreation opportunities and environmental quality to the northern Sierra. I have participated twice in Grinduro, a unique bicycle race that attracts hundreds of multi day visitors to Quincy. I am a resident of Sacramento and despite the ease of access, had never been to Quincy before my first Grinduro. Because if the work of SBTS, Quincy is now an nationally significant cycling destination. I urge you to approve their application. Eric Holst - 4/13/2019


Hi- I support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship/Plumas County application due to the incredible value the public is getting from the work taking place in their service area. They are transforming a rural area away from resource extraction into a recreational powerhouse of a community. Their work in the region and state is unparalleled and they should be awarded this grant. I am a business owner, outdoor enthusiast, locally elected official, representative of the Outdoor Industry Association and California Recreation Partnership. I do not speak for any of these organizations, but I include them to identify that my comments come from experience in the outdoor industry and in rural economic development. SBTS is creating local employment opportunities and sustainable trails that will hold up over time. There is no other worthy organization of SBTS caliber and I highly support their grant application and all the work they are doing. Sincerely, David Polivy Owner, Tahoe Mountain Sports Member, Truckee Town Council Board Member, Outdoor Industry Association Recreation Advisory Council Founding Board Member, California Outdoor Recreation Partnership David Polivy - 4/13/2019


I'm writing to generate support for the requested grant to Plumas county to maintain ~70 miles of mountain bike trail and to begin the exciting project that will connect Downieville to Quincy via a singletrack. These trails are one of California's gems and should be treasured. They not only provide enjoyment to thousands of avid mountain bikes such as myself, but more importantly also provide a much needed economic benefit for the people who live in these areas. Due to the number of mtn bikers that ride these trails, it's important to create a sustainable trail system that will require less maintenance and minimize the ecological impact to the terrain and water shed areas. Let's do all that we can to keep the trails open and safe for public use so everyone can benefit. Paul Bonifacio - 4/13/2019


Please give priority consideration for this project. James Marks - 4/13/2019


Another good program that should stay funded. Thank you for providing this grant. Conrad R Essen - 4/13/2019


Please support this project and the trail extension. I live in Oakland, CA and mountain biking is the primary reason I visit this area. Madeline Warren - 4/14/2019


To Whom it May Concern, I would like to express my support for the Mount Hough Trail System Ground Operations grant funding and maintenance. These trails provide sustainable and healthy recreation for visitors and locals. Many local jobs are supported by trail visitors. I personally travel to the Quincy region to ride these trails at least 4 times per year. Each weekend I visit with a friend adds at least $300 to the local economy in the form of paying for food, shuttles and lodging. Multiply that by by a few thousand visitors and pretty soon you are talking about a real positive econimic impact. In sum, please continue to support the on going maintenance and construction of trails in Plumas County. Sincerely, Steve Stewart - 4/14/2019


INCREASE RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR VISITORS AND LOCALS, IMPROVE SUSTAINABLE PUBLIC ACCESS TO OPEN SPACE. AUDREY BIEHLE - 4/15/2019


This is a great trail system. I support using my OHV fees to keep this system operational and open to motorcycles and non-motorized vehicles as well. California needs more OHV trails for motorcycles. Thanks Anthony Traina - 4/15/2019


Motorized and non-motorized trails on the Plumas National Forest provide important recreation and economic benefits to our region. It is important that these trails remain in good condition and open to the public. Because Plumas County is at the headwaters of the State Water Project and provides drinking water for 26 million Californians it is imperative that trails be maintained so they do not cause excessive erosion. I strongly support using state OHV funds to maintain trails in the Mount Hough area. Darrel Jury - 4/15/2019


I think these programs / grants are a vital part of keeping trails open for recreation. Many rural counties have a recreational economy and these trail systems help employ folks, provide recreation for urban dwellers, maintain water quality by reducing erosion, etc, etc. I live in a rural county (Mono) and with more Federal Resources (money) going to fire suppression vs. operations and maintenance on existing facilities (trails, bathrooms, etc, etc). The list of deferred maintenance on public lands where I live is very large, and forget about getting any new trails build without a cost share agreement with USDA. Hats off to Plumas County for stepping in and trying to fill this void and grow their recreational economy for locals and visitors. I am highly supportive of this grant to help Plumas County and/or Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship maintain trail networks in the Sierra. Thank you for your time. Gerry. Gerry LeFrancois - 4/15/2019


I support SBTS receiving this grant. Ensuring the Downieville and Quincy trail networks remain open to the public is crucial for recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, creates local employment, creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and keeps trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Downieville and Quincy are special communities that greatly benefit from the positive economic impact that outdoor recreation brings to the community. I've been hugely lucky to be able to enjoy the hardwork they have put into these trails. Andrew Peterson - 4/15/2019


Please approve this grant application for SBTS so they can continue to provide recreational opportunities in the Mt. Hough area. The Mt. Hough area is attracting more and more people to hike and bike and continued trail maintenance will ensure those numbers increase all while providing sustainable trails and protecting the ecosystem and watershed. Sincerely, James Alcorn - 4/15/2019


Thank you for the great work you are doing. Plumas County is known all over the US and beyond for the trail system and people from California and beyond visit and support the communities when they come to use the trails. I, my family, and my friends support the work you are doing. Thank you, Eduardo F. Llach 36 Churchill Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306 Eduardo F. Llach - 4/15/2019


Thank you for the great work you are doing. Plumas County is known all over the US and beyond for the trail system and people from California and beyond visit and support the communities when they come to use the trails. I, my family, and my friends support the work you are doing. Thank you, Eduardo F. Llach 36 Churchill Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306 Eduardo F. Llach - 4/15/2019


I support SBTS receiving this grant. Downieville and Quincy trails are extremely important to me and my network. Ensuring these trail networks remain open to the public is crucial for recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, creates local employment, creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and keeps trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Downieville and Quincy are special communities that greatly benefit from the positive economic impact that outdoor recreation brings to the community. Lindsay Helmuth - 4/15/2019


support SBTS receiving this grant. Downieville and Quincy trails are extremely important to me and my network. Ensuring these trail networks remain open to the public is crucial for recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, creates local employment, creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and keeps trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Downieville and Quincy are special communities that greatly benefit from the positive economic impact that outdoor recreation brings to the community. Jonathan Lamb - 4/15/2019


The trail systems create recreation opportunities for visitors and locals alike. Not to mention they create local employment and sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance. Keeping the trails maintained also protects the watershed and keeps the people who ride them happy and healthy! Samantha Rick - 4/15/2019


A brief note to support the efforts and grant application of Plumas county for work with the Mt Hough trail system. I organize a group of mountain bikers that frequently travel, stay and spend to visit great trail systems. Not only is this a great way to bring visitors, money and jobs to the local community but well built trails provide access to all ages and all economic backgrounds to enjoy the outdoors. Chris Stanley - 4/15/2019


As an outdoor enthusiast, the trails in Plumas County are incredible and the attention to detail, safety, and sustainability make a repeat visitor to the area for recreation. Benjamin P Knox - 4/16/2019


I have been an extensive user of the trail network for the last 20 years. It has provided a healthy source of activity for myself and kids. Lets keep the momentum going so others can enjoy this valuable resource. willy dommen willy dommen - 4/16/2019


I support SBTS receiving this grant. Downieville and Quincy trails are extremely important to me and my network. Ensuring these trail networks remain open to the public is crucial for recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, creates local employment, creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and keeps trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Downieville and Quincy are special communities that greatly benefit from the positive economic impact that outdoor recreation brings to the community. Joel C Wilson - 4/16/2019


These comments are intended to support the efforts to enhance the mountain biking/trail creation and maintenance efforts specific to Mt. Hough and its related trail system(s). Though our family lives in the Bay Area, we have made many trips to the Sierra Buttes and the Downieville/Sierra City/Quincy communities specifically to ride these trails and enjoy what the Sierra Buttes have to offer. Mt. Hough has long been one of our favorite destinations, and both of my sons and I have ridden the trails many times. My sons have previously volunteered for (and assisted with) trailbuilding efforts specific to Mt. Hough's system, with good results. We have provided financial support as well through multiple monetary donations over the years. As the trailbuilders needed support then, the trailbuilders need support now - as a family, we encourage the Grants Program to provide funding for the continuation (if not enhancement) of the trailbuilding and maintenance efforts required for the Mt. Hough system. Jim Henderson - 4/16/2019


Hello, I am writing this in support of the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship and the great work they do for the multi-use trail network around Quincy all over Plumas County. Their hard work is reflected in the quality and sustainability of the trails which is what draws my family and friends back to visit the area. The mountain biking, hiking and motorcycling trails were what introduced us to the area. We now visit regularly and also enjoy all of the other things the area has to offer including fishing and golfing. There is no better trail system in California. As someone who worked in the environmental field conducting assessments, watershed testing and creek restoration, I also view trails from the perspective of impact and sustainability. Thanks to their professional and volunteer crews, the historic trails are well maintained, upgraded and in some cases re-routed to minimize impact. New trails appear to be designed to balance the fun factor while protecting resources such as creeks and meadows. The trail systems of the area a an important resource and asset on their own and allow many visitors and residents low impact access to so many wild and beautiful areas of the County. Best, Joe Inch Joseph M Inch IV - 4/17/2019


I approve of ground operations grants for SBTS, as they create local jobs, improve trails, create recreational destinations and keep trails open and safe while protecting watershed. Morgan Fletcher - 4/17/2019


I support SBTS receiving this grant. Downieville and Quincy trail are very important to me and my friends. The SBTS does an amazing job of building and maintaining their trails to be safe, access amazing places, and be environmentally responsible by protecting the watershed. The economic impact from the outdoor recreation in these communities is enormous, every business in town benefits from the world class trails. John Parker - 4/17/2019


My family rides Mt Hough, South Park, and Claremont and the trails are an important part of our summers. We spend 100+ days out riding and seeing the trails maintained always makes me appreciate the time and effort the community and the trail crews put in to make it right. Jeff Dupras - 4/20/2019


As an avid mountain biker, I am continuously grateful for all the work the the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship does to maintain and build trails in Plumas County. The effort they put into trail work and their connections with the surrounding communities are unparalleled. From building trails with sustainability in mind to hosting volunteer trail work days, the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship allows people access to recreation that they otherwise would never be able to engage in. Kacy Roeder - 4/20/2019


I'm commenting to support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship and the work they do in Plumas County. SBTS creates and maintains amazing trails that attract folks from all over. These folks come to enjoy the amazing trails but also end up supporting other local businesses. This is a huge benefit to the local economy. The trails they maintain and build are done to protect local watersheds and made sustainable for years to come. SBTS employs many locals which also helps the local economy through recreation. The trails in the Lost Sierra are some of the best anywhere and create amazing recreation opportunities with amazing economical benefits for the whole region. Andrew Tarca Andrew Tarca - 4/20/2019


I believe this trails system is a vital piece to providing jobs for our local economy. As a local, I want to be able to share this beautiful and majestic property with my children, and have it be safe and sustainable and protect the local watershed. Tiffiney Lozano - 4/20/2019


Recreation is good for our health and happiness. It also brings some well needed revenue to our counties citizens. Joe Russell - 4/20/2019


I support the creation and maintenance of multiple user trail systems in the areas of Mt. Hough, Snake Lake, Clairemont and Nelson Creek. SBTS provides excellent employment opportunities as well as user-friendly recreation areas for locals and tourists. I also love the community involvement SBTS creates, including their trail days which brings local members of the community out to enjoy and maintain the trails that we all love to use. Hannah Stewart - 4/20/2019


I support the work that Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is doing in the Plumas NF and encourage the FS to continue supporting and their maintenance and development trails in the area. I was born and raised in Plumas county and have seen a significant change in the recreation attitude and community involvement since SBTS has been working in the region. The trail system has brought renown recreation to the region, brought in tourist's dollars to the community, and created local employment opportunities. I hope the FS will continue to support the SBTS work in the region. Trinity Stirling - 4/20/2019


Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has developed a trails system that provides incredible recreational opportunity and stimulates the economy of local communities. The organization stretches their funds for this work by employing volunteers. Sam Diaz - 4/21/2019


The Butte County Federal/State Land Use Coordinating Committee (LUCC) supports this grant application. The LUCC is a Board appointed (Brown Act) committee representing Butte County citizens’ interests in the areas of recreation, forest management, tourism/economic development and environment/watershed, working closely with the Plumas and Lassen National Forests and other public land managers. These comments were developed at a public meeting with input from the public. The LUCC supports this grant application for needed maintenance and improvements to single-track trails, quad trails, and 4x4 trails. This is particularly needed after the heavy rains experienced in 2018-19, which have done tremendous damage and erosion to roads and trails frequented by OHV riders that must be mitigated to prevent erosion and additional resource damage. Butte County Coordinating Committee - 4/22/2019


The trails are essential to the Plumas County future. They draw in folks from elsewhere and support the economy. They also insure the preservation of wild lands for enjoyment of generations to come. SBTS has been working on these trails selflessly and are completely worthy of any funding assistance to further their success. They have done a whole lot with what they've got and are an excellent investment to further human outdoor appreciation and preservation. They have educated and enlightened thousands. This is needed. We need to know what we have and value it before we accidentally lose it. Mari Erin Roth - 4/25/2019


Race events, new businesses renting bicycles and offering shuttle services are increasing the Quincy area as a destination for young healthy athletic environmentally conscious folk and the affects could not be better for Plumas County. Anything we can do to continue the momentum that may preserve the area despite economic downturns of retail markets is the very best. It's the best thing that has happened in the area in a long time. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has created and maintained trails on Mount Hough primarily with volunteers and very creative marketing. Their whole heart is in this and anything that furthers the effort, I'm all for it. I am the Sports Editor and outdoor sports that don't involve people running into each other ... a real big plus. Activities that pull people from their hypnotized state with their phones ... another big plus. The great outdoors is our attraction. SBTS efforts could save the towns in Plumas County, it would not be the worst thing in the world for us to become a biking, hiking, skiing destination for the masses. The trails are essential to the Plumas County future. They draw in folks from elsewhere and support the economy. They also insure the preservation of wild lands for enjoyment of generations to come. SBTS has been working on these trails selflessly and are completely worthy of any funding assistance to further their success. They have done a whole lot with what they've got and are an excellent investment to further human outdoor appreciation and preservation. They have educated and enlightened thousands. This is needed. We need to know what we have and value it before we accidentally lose it. Mari Erin Roth - 4/25/2019


Quincy is a summer destination to escape the summer heat of the valley. We go there to bike the trails on Mt. Huff and the surrounds. Spending time and $ there is part of reason why I want to see the trails kept in the conditions they have evolved to through the stewardship of the SBTS program. Bill Bill Brent - 5/5/2019


I am writing in support of Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship's collaboration with Plumas County and the National Forest Service. I live in Paradise and frequent the Quincy area and nearby Plumas County trails. I have been involved with many trail building and maintenance days. Having a beautiful area to ride now means so much more to me now. I love hiking with my wife along the Spanish creek trail, and enjoy riding my mountain bike up around the Mt. Hough Area. What the stewardship has done in the area is incredible. I love visiting the area as much as I can. I know having sustainable and amazing trails pulls a lot of out of towners such as myself to the area. Having these great trails brings in extra revenue to the county. Having wonderful places to eat and drink after a long bike ride is the icing on the cake! Please continue the support of SBTS and Plumas County trails! Thanks! Torey Feldhaus - 5/6/2019


The Butte County Federal/State Land Use Coordinating Committee (LUCC) supports this grant application. The LUCC is a Board appointed (Brown Act) committee representing Butte County citizens’ interests in the areas of recreation, forest management, tourism/economic development and environment/watershed, working closely with the Plumas and Lassen National Forests and other public land managers. These comments were developed at a public meeting with input from the public. The LUCC supports this grant application for needed Plumas County Multi-Use Network (PCMUN) maintenance. This is particularly needed after the heavy rains experienced in 2018-19, which have done tremendous damage and erosion to roads and trails frequented by OHV riders that must be mitigated to prevent erosion and additional resource damage. Butte County Coordinating Committee - 4/22/2019


The Butte County Federal/State Land Use Coordinating Committee (LUCC) supports this grant application. The LUCC is a Board appointed (Brown Act) committee representing Butte County citizens’ interests in the areas of recreation, forest management, tourism/economic development and environment/watershed, working closely with the Plumas and Lassen National Forests and other public land managers. These comments were developed at a public meeting with input from the public. The LUCC supports this grant application for outreach and education regarding OHV opportunities within Plumas County. Butte County Coordinating Committee - 4/22/2019


Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) has a track record of supporting trails in the downieville area and has expanded these efforts to 60 miles of trails near Quincy. Supported development and continued maintenance of the trails systems will support Recreation opportunities for visitors and locals for biking, OHV, hiking and equestrian. Local towns will see an increase in visitors which will support local business from bike shops, shuttle services, outfitters, restaurants and hotel. Grants to support this trails work will come back in orders of magnitude for local business and increase tax dollars for local government which support and increasing local employment. This critical trail work also sustains economic benefits by creating a sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and keeping trails open and safe while protecting watershed. Grant Gerlach - 4/29/2019


The Butte County Federal/State Land Use Coordinating Committee (LUCC) supports this grant application. The LUCC is a Board appointed (Brown Act) committee representing Butte County citizens’ interests in the areas of recreation, forest management, tourism/economic development and environment/watershed, working closely with the Plumas and Lassen National Forests and other public land managers. These comments were developed at a public meeting with input from the public. The LUCC is supportive of law enforcement grants and related activities on OHV utilized public lands, and of the need for equipment designed to effectively traverse these challenging roads and trails. The LUCC is especially concerned with law enforcement presence during OHV peak use times (weekends and holidays, especially late afternoon and nights) to prevent resource damage on public lands. Butte County Coordinating Committee - 4/22/2019


I support this grant. They need these funds to provide safe riding conditions to all who use OHV routes. Motorcycles and communication equipment are important for the areas they cover. Mark Borchert - 5/4/2019


I support this grant. Staffing and vehicles will get them to the rugged locations they need to access to do their job. Additional items will help them better access and communicate with riders. Their presence makes those of us using OHV routes safer in this popular region. Mark Borchert - 5/4/2019


I support this grant. They requested staffing and items to successfully do their job. Mark Borchert - 5/4/2019


I would like to comment on the San Diego County Sheriff’s dept grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. The rate for sergeant and deputies is very high. Much higher than other similar LE applications. Is this fully burdened? Other than the very high rates, the grant is good. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


I own a home on Santa Rosa Road not far from the Santa Ynez River. I would like to express my support for the grant that has been requested by the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office to provide increased patrolling and enforcement in the Santa Ynez Riverbed area where off-road vehicles are being used illegally.Carol Hatley - 3/5/2019


First off, as a specialist in procurements for the federal govt, there is no way would approve the sheriffs dept for a Polaris 1000 rzr. That piece of equipment is a $25000 sport UTV designed for FUN. and they definitely don't need a $25000 enclosed toy hauler to transport it in. and a $45,000 truck? There are many other models that would suffice, and be actually be more affordable and compatible to the sheriffs mission, for example a 4 seat Polaris ranger that's around $12,000. and open trailer would be a perfect fit. I don't see the need to spend state tax and ohv money for this cause at all. the equipment they are asking for is all equipment for he sheriffs to go have fun in the same area they are trying to say illegal off roaders are harming the area. the vehicles the sheriffs department are asking for will do just as much harm to the riverbed. What is the justification of a toy hauler that has living quarters? Secondly, as someone who is a property owner right next to the Santa Ynez river bed in Lompoc ca, county of Santa Barbara. I feel this whole endeavor is huge waste of tax dollars. My understanding, the grant money will be provided by OHV funds collected through OHV registrations. Maybe the focus here, and proper use of those funds should be to develop a riding area, that can be safely managed and actually create revenue, instead of throwing it out the door for the county law enforcement to go have a good time cruising the river bed in a $25,000 toy being pulled by a $42,000 truck in a $25,000 enclosed trailer.Instead of actually doing proper law enforcement and addressing the real needs of this community. the equipment they are asking for all toys, the UTV, the Trailer, and truck... all toys and all equipment that should be considered that way. there are more utilitarian vehicles they can use for way less tax dollars!!! merlin wgner - 3/5/2019


As a citizen of Santa Barbara County, I fully support the application submitted by the SB County Sheriff’s Department for funds for patrolling and law enforcement. I urge the State of California to grant funds for the purposes as outlined in G18-03-87-LO1. The riverbed represents an area that is difficult to patrol by vehicle or on foot. Law breakers on ATVs can easily outrun a deputy on foot and may exit the riverbed at numerous locations. Their unrestricted use causes erosion of riverbanks and destruction of sensitive animal habitat. Recently, it was estimated that over 300 individuals were living in the riverbed near Lompoc. Regularly, they exit the riverbed to cause crime and trespass in and around the City of Lompoc and elsewhere. I urge the State of California to grant needed funds to address this situation. Edward J. Zemaitis - 3/8/2019


Metcalf Motorcycle Park is one of the few places in Silicon Valley where families can participate in OHV activities in a safe, environmentally controlled location. the park is truly a gem in the system, with heavy usage, and great staff. I implore you, as a taxpaying citizen, to consider this grant positively. We need all the help we can to keep this park open, functioning, and continuing to offer the wonderful chance for families to ride together, see nature, yet not disturb it. charles statman - 3/5/2019


Metcalf Motorcycle Park is the "most fun place you can go for 6 bucks." The rangers are very friendly and welcoming to all age groups and skill levels and promote a safe environment. I hope their grant gets improved to further improve the park. -Kris Linquist Santa Clara, CA Kristopher Linquist - 3/5/2019


Really high quality park that is clearly well maintained. Is there any option for expanding the park in the future? Kevin Vesely - 3/8/2019


Metcalf Motorcycle Park is a major part of my life, ensuring that MCMP can be maintained and improved is very important to me. I fully support this request for funding, however would like to see a greater request for heavy equipment operations. Specifically, I would like to see specific requests for improvements to the MCMP MX track to enable a higher quality riding experience. The current track is maintained in non-deterministic schedule and is often is dis-repair. Adding funding/hours specifically for providing a set schedule for Motocross track repairs, improvements and preparation would bring a massive amount of value to the community. This would enable a safer and more fun track for the community to enjoy. With the loss of 408MX Motocross, the Metcalf MX track is the only motocross facility for Santa Clara county residents that is not 45+ miles away. Ensuring funding to have this gem of a facility be prepared in a safe, fun, and consistent manner would be an extreme benefit to riding community. brandon black - 3/8/2019


(My previous comment may not have gotten through as I got an error so typing it again) Please support our OHV park, it continues to be an important recreational resource for myself and my family. It provides an outlet for exercise, as well as experiencing the outdoors in a safe family-friendly environment. Antonio Ceccato - 3/8/2019


The Metcalf OHV park is a wonderful and needed resource for my family to enjoy outdoor activities. Adrianne - 3/8/2019


The Jr Ranger program is great! elena nelson - 3/9/2019


Metcalf Motorcyle Park is a great local spot for families to ride. My boys can't wait for the upgraded MX track. Support and improvements for this park are important. elena nelson - 3/9/2019


Metcalf Motorcycle Park has been one of my favorite parks to visitthisnpast year. The park has been has been extremely valuable as it’s one of the only parks that we have available to ride ohv motorcycles in the area. Michael Yee - 3/9/2019


Please support this valuable park. Justin Czujko - 3/9/2019


The rangers and voluntees do a very important job keeping the park safe and fun for so many riders. For the 2 million residence of Santa Clara county, this is the only OHV park within an hour drive. Please give Metcalf the grant so they can better serve the community here. Thank You Sherwin Lu - 3/9/2019


These folks do a great job with this park and provide great service for us OHV riders! Bill Richter - 3/10/2019


As a frequent user of the Metcalf Motorcycle park, I am in strong support of this grant. Sal Ahani - 3/10/2019


As a frequent user of the MMCP, I am in full support of this grant. Sal Ahani - 3/10/2019


I am in full support of this grant. As a frequent user of the Metcalf facility, I can attest to the presence and involvement of the park rangers at all times.Sal Ahani - 3/10/2019


As a frequent user of the Metcalf facility, I am in full support of this grant. This park is one of the few OHVs left within driving distance of San Francisco, and is used by many. It is well maintained, thanks to grants such as this. Sal Ahani - 3/10/2019


Hello! Metcalf Motorcycle Park is one of the most valued off-road areas in the State of California and provides a resource to literally thousands of Bay Area motorcyclists who have little other access to off-road areas for riding. It, along with Hollister and Carnegie SVRAs, are the crown jewels of off-road motorcycling in the Bay Area. The grant money that the state provides to Metcalf is critical to its ongoing operations and maintenance and is a valuable investment in recreation for Californians. Maintaining the trails and facility is critical to both ensuring safe off-road experiences for beginning riders as well as ensuring the environmental impact of the off-road use is minimized. The rangers and other staff at Metcalf do a great job and we are glad to have them and benefit from their efforts. I can't emphasize enough how beneficial this grant is to recreation in California. Thanks for your time. Dan Brown Livemore, California Daniel Brown - 3/10/2019


Metcalf Motorcycle Park serves thousands of dirt bike riders every year and is one of the most popular parks in the South Bay. The grant money that the state provides to Metcalf is extremely important for the continued maintenance of Metcalf Motorcycle Park. Due to the popularity of Metcalf, weekly maintenance of the trails and tracks are required for safe operation. In addition erosion control is also an important safety concern as well as ensuring a sustainable future for OHV activity. The Rangers and staff at Metcalf Motorcycle Park do a wonderful job and we all appreciate their dedication. So the money for this grant is money well spent. Thank you, Andrew Bajka Los Altos California Andrew Bajka - 3/10/2019


It would be super good if there is more money for ground operations. The back hills needs a lot of work. There are stones everywhere and terrain is too rough to ride. Very few people go there Adam K - 3/10/2019


Very happy with the park. The MX track is really good. Visiting it very often Adam K - 3/10/2019


I own two OHV motorcycles, which I regularly renew and keep the OHV registration current and up to date. I do this mainly because I know some of those funds go to the fine services provided by Santa Clara County, specifically the Metcalf Motorcycle Park. I’ve been riding for many years, and Metcalf is one of the safest and well managed parks I have had the pleasure of experiencing. It is great for riders of all ages. With near zero “local” public (and private) lands available for OHV riding we need to preserve, embrace, an enhance parks like Metcalf for future generations of kids and adults to enjoy. I am a bit saddened that we live in an area of the country with fantastic year round weather, yet do not have access to OHV trails and riding areas. Please keep funding Metcalf ... in fact I would suggest expanding the funding to improve Metcalf riding opportunities. Thx Jeff Crilly Jeff Crilly - 3/10/2019


It would be super good if there is more money for ground operations. The back hills needs a lot of work. There are stones everywhere and terrain is too rough to ride. Very few people go there Adam K - 3/10/2019


Comments on Metcalf Motorcyle Park: MMCP is used by my family each week. MMCP is one of the last, local sites for legal off road recreation. It is very important to us that it remains open. Mike Fetisoff Mike Fetisoff - 3/11/2019


I am in support of grants for this park. I use the park almost weekly and any funding to support the upkeep and operations of this park can bring more awareness to the parks and recreation objectives. In addition, funding will help increase safety at the park to reduce injuries. Please approve this funding request. Jonathan Jiang - 3/11/2019


Hi, our family has been going to Metcalf motorcycle park on a regular basis for over 10 years now. Please maintain the park, related programs and funding to keep it such a fun place to visit now and into the future. The ranger staff at Metcalf are some of the most polite and professional people I have ever known. Sincerely, Eric Osborne Eric Osborne - 3/11/2019


Great place for families to come have fun and learn to ride off road. A lot closer than any other OHV options. Would love to see more acreage acquired. Jeremy - 3/14/2019


Please support Metcalf, this is a great family fun park that helps get kids outdoors and off of video games, Randy Wensmann - 3/25/2019


We are a small (67 members) but active group of observed trials riders practicing our sport at Metcalf on a regular basis. Observed trials is the art of riding an off road motorcycle very slow (walking speed) over varied obstacles while maintaining control and balance of the motorcycle. The motorcycle are small and lightweight (160 Lbs) and quiet, and have a very low impact on the environment (noise, terrain). Our group has enjoyed the trials areas in the Metcalf park and are working on a regular basis with the rangers and park maintenance crew to maintain and improve it. With this comment on the grant application "GCA-18 - 94-6000533 - Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department" we would like to show our support for the Metcalf park and encourage the grant committee to support this grant request. Thank you in advance for your help. Denis Concordel - 3/25/2019


I use Metcalf Motorcycle County Park at least once a month. I wholly support this program. Sean Pham - 4/4/2019


Hi, We appreciate all the work and maintenance done on the park. Most of the trails are one way and it is the safest compared to other parks in the surroundings. We are really excited by the up coming new track that will be expanded this year. The team is doing a lot of great job for the riders and it is very much appreciated! Thank you to all rangers! Cheers, Benjamin Benjamin Bonnet - 4/5/2019


Hi, I love this park for my kids. It is the closest and I feel it is organized to be the safest in the Bay Area to promote outdoor activities and safety. They participated to the Junior Ranger Program and loved the experience. They also learnt a lot from the Rangers Please continue to support the park! Thank you, Benjamin Benjamin Bonnet - 4/5/2019


This is a meager amount of money this agency is asking for that provides sole law enforcement in this remote area. This agency is well deserving of the funds and the author outlines their needs, but not any excess. The agency is the smallest sheriff's office in the state by law enforcement officers and need every bit of funding they can get. I recommend funding this and using any additional funding that you can provide to them. From the freezing blizzard snow to the brutal summer months where numerous people get lost or stranded, Sierra SO does it all. Keep up the good work and please fund this! Matt Boyd - 3/15/2019


I am opposed to this grant. The VCSO has two deputies for the area they are more than adequate. More grant money would likely result in 'revenue generating citations' where residents would have to travel nearly two hrs to Ventura over this BS. I am a property owner in the area and we do not need more 'Revenue Rangers" Put the grant money where there is crime; not revenue to be generated. Yes, I am a fully filed candidate for Sheriff of Ventura County. Bruce Boyer - 3/6/2019


NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

I love NYPUM and have volunteered with the group from El Centro. I see you are looking to fund two full time and two half time employees. It seems like a lot of staff time if you are taking the kids out twice a month. This is really a great program and I'm sure it motivates the kids to do well in school. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


I'm writing in support of the OHV grant application submitted by Butte County Search and Rescue. I'm a 20 year resident of Butte County, employer to 60 in the community, and long time donor to BCSAR. I have spent significant time in the area that BCSAR describes in their grant application and can vouch for the need for the requested equipment to assist lost / stranded / injured people in this area, especially in heavy snow years like the one we are currently in. I'm happy to discuss further with your agency and appreciate your support of this request. Jeff Collins - 4/10/2019


Great use of funds and sorely needed in this area that has gone through so much in the past few years Matt Arness - 4/20/2019


As a Butte County resident, I fully support the grant application from Butte County Search & Rescue. I have seen them train and execute missions in the Jonesville and High Lakes areas and can confidently say that new snow machines would improve their ability to serve the residents of Butte County and all users of those public lands. Please strongly consider approving their grant request in full. Keith Crawford - 4/20/2019


Bcsar did a lot for butte county during the campfire. They are appreciated and deserve this grant Christina Caarson Pangbourne Skaggs - 4/19/2019


The Butte County Federal/State Land Use Coordinating Committee (LUCC) supports this grant application. The LUCC is a Board appointed (Brown Act) committee representing Butte County citizens’ interests in the areas of recreation, forest management, tourism/economic development and environment/watershed, working closely with the Plumas and Lassen National Forests and other public land managers. These comments were developed at a public meeting with input from the public. The LUCC is strongly supportive of this grant application and the vital need for the purchase of the snowmobiles and snowmobile training to better enable safe access to snow covered areas in the local OHV areas for the Butte County Search and Rescue units. Butte County Coordinating Committee - 4/22/2019


I feel these types of programs are very important because they provide education on the proper use of OHV facilities as well as public responsibility for our forest lands and the continued us of such lands for all of our citizens. As well as conservation and maintenance. I feel that the CA4WDC provides these services through these types of grants.James Settlemoir - 3/7/2019


Cal4Wheel is a major participant in the education of the general public when is comes to the OHV sport and trails. When I speak with people about off roaring they are surprised to learn that it is because of organizations such as this one that not only help keep the trails open but work on teaching our younger generation on the need to keep the trails open and how to care for our trails for the future. Please grant Cal4Wheel the funding they need to carry on with this and all their educational programs going. Thank you, Robert Rien Orange, CA Robert Rien - 3/7/2019


Looks good, we need to start educating the public about off-roading and Pack It In Pack It Out so our public lands stay clean environments for the future. Color books, trash bags, spill kits and safety material is a great start. Alan Bauer - 3/7/2019


Looks good, we need to start educating the public about off-roading and "Pack It In Pack It Out" so our public lands remain clean environments for the future for families to enjoy. Color books, trash bags, spill kits and safety material is a great start. I like that material will be available across the state at events, shows for clubs and individuals. Alan Bauer - 3/7/2019


This is Grant is needed to keep our Trails clean and free of trash, waste and spills. We are in danger of having trail closed. This is and urgent need! Education is the key. Bonnie Steele - 3/8/2019


Education of all ages is key to keeping our message of working together to keep our trails open and respecting the outdoors. Bonnie Steele - 3/8/2019

More and more families are going out and enjoying the outdoor experience. The biggest problem is there are not restrooms every where they venture. Wag bags handed out at trail heads will help educate the public and keep our public lands clean and safe, Spill kits are another way to help keep the public land from being polluted buy the occasional spill and make spill clean up easier and available on the trails. Glenn Reynolds - 3/8/2019


The education of new people coming into public land after buying one of the many OHV's is the only way to preserve the trails and the environment. Instilling good habits into young minds will last a life. Glenn Reynolds - 3/8/2019


This is a huge need for the OHV community as a whole. This grant will directly be used to educated the public on taking care of the public lands they recreated on. With collaborations with several OHV Clubs, National Forests, State Parks and BLM; these Wag bags, spill kits and trash bags will be greatly appreciated by everyone. This is the the true essence of what these cooperative grants are meant to be for. As the Vice President of Cal4Wheel Association, I will distribute these items to various locations across the state through meetings and events that we conduct. The Association has over 150 clubs and close to 4,000 members. All these kits will be given out to everyone prior to them accessing any public land. Thank you for your support and please consider 100% funding of this grant application.McGarity Mike - 3/15/2019


I would like to see this type of grant so we can start educating the public about off-roading and Pack It In Pack It Out so our public lands stay clean. Color books, trash bags, spill kits and safety material is a great start. ALETA LA FONTAINE - 3/15/2019


Line this idea and agree we need to start educating the public about off-roading and Pack It In Pack It Out so our public lands stay clean . Color books, trash bags, spill kits and safety material is a great start. ALETA LA FONTAINE - 3/15/2019


Most trails have clubs for volunteers that support the trails up and down the State. These educational materials could be given out at the club meetings where you have a captive audience and the educational message will be heard. The clubs will be able to spread the message with the right materials in hand. Terra Nelson - 3/19/2019


Glad to see such a great program Doc Saldivar - 4/7/2019


Happy to be a part of this great effort to support such a great program Doc Saldivar - 4/7/2019


The city dwellers are coming to the backcountry in greater numbers and many of them are ignorant of proper resource protection. They don't know what to do when there is no bathroom, dumpster, garbage disposal, running water etc. This is a universal problem and we all need to work together to educate them! Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club President and CA4WDC member Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


The 4x4 community works and plays alongside the OHV (non street legal) users and together we can educate the users to "respect access". A successful effort in education will reduce the resource damage and need for law enforcement. There should be a greater allocation of OHMVR funds for education! Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club President Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


Education of users in the importance of spill clean up and providing tool to accomplish is very positive. As users of public land, we want to protect the environment and this grant will help educate more users on how to protect the land and the trails. I support this grant being funded. Steve Egbert - 4/20/2019


I support the funding of this educational grant. Often new users do not get education to make them welcome visitors on our public lands. This grant would help educate users to be good stewards of our public lands. These materials can help make better users by increasing skills that protect the lands and trails. Steve Egbert - 4/20/2019


I do a lot of ground oops in the Sierra National Forest through the Forest Service Adopt-A-Trail program with my club Ditch Bank Off-Roaders 4x4. the spill kits is a great idea and needed for the environment. We are now being told they are required at all time by the Forest Service while out on the trails during trail work, scheduled permitted events and while we are recreating. The education component that will come from this through Cal4wheel Conservation & Education, will make a big impact state wide to all types of OHV operators and will help keep our public lands open and clean! Ryan Choate - 4/20/2019


Me and my family have been involved in OHV out door recreation most my life, this has been an ongoing problem as long as i can remember. The wag/bags, spill kits and trash bags would help our goal, keeping our environment and trails clean and sanitary for the public and future generations to come. Bryan Weldrick - 4/20/2019


I love these grants and hope they can be fully funded. I would like to get some of the coloring books for CORVA's and SDORC's events and some trash bags when we host cleanups. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


I think this is a good grant to help educate people on the correct ways to use trails. The garbage bags that are handed out have been a huge help on trails to educate the age old idea of pack in pack out. Many of these bags have been used to clean up trails and keep garbage off the ground. Handing out spill kits to people is a great thing to help keep the fluids spilled on trails which is something ever vehicle on a trail needs. The foundation is working hard to keep it's members and the general public informed on safe ways to use the trails. As the sport is increasing in popularity the state needs groups like this to help keep people informed. Landon Gipe - 5/4/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Inyo NF Ground Operations for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair of the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR) CA4WDC Conservation & Education Foundation OHV Outreach Education http://olga.ohv.parks.ca.gov/egrams_ohmvr/user/ReviewProjects.aspx Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 5/6/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Inyo NF Ground Operations for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair of the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR) CA4WDC Conservation & Education Foundation State Wide Trail Education http://olga.ohv.parks.ca.gov/egrams_ohmvr/user/ReviewProjects.aspx Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 5/6/2019


I've used these mobile map apps and they are extremely helpful. There is no other currently available product that does what these do, which is providing geo referenced maps that allow the user to know precisely where they are, and whether or not they are on a designated trail. The motor vehicle use maps and other agency publications are nearly always outdated. Paper maps don't allow a user unfamiliar with an area to know exactly where they are. Given the time and expertise involved the project cost estimate seems very reasonable. bruce whitcher - 3/10/2019


Project Cost Estimate - equipment use - Please correct the following statement: Sweco trail dozer being provided as match (not purchased with OHV grant funds) is not owned by CTUC. bruce whitcher - 3/10/2019


This request of fund maintenance and updating of the CTUC OHV Trail Map CA mobile map app should be approved. More and more of users rely on mobile map apps to guide their OHV recreation. Current accurate maps are essential to responsible OHV use. "Ignorance of the law" is not excuse and accurate maps contributes a lot less "ignorance" to worry about when enjoying OHV recreation. John Shepherd - 3/26/2019


The CTUC maps are fantastic and the best map available. The Forest Service MVUM maps are virtually useless. More people are using electronic devices for navigation and it is important to keep the maps available and updated on apps. Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club President. Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


This grant was brought to my attention by friends in the OHV community. It became apparent that the Forest Service manipulated CTUC in this grant as they asked CTUC to assist them and basically wrote this grant for them, using their name. In good faith, CTUC agreed. When volunteers figured out that UTMC never agreed to volunteer in this capacity some thought I should just go along with the FS for the good of the OHV trails and not speak out. My board and I disagreed. This has happened too many times. The Forest Service is in the middle of a culture change (so it says). They have had many recent lawsuits by women and others who have been abused and treated unfairly with this Forest at the center of that national problem and lawsuits. It seems that nothing changes. Like the women firefighters on this forest, I also suffered as a volunteer, many abuses and when I spoke out, I was retaliated against by the Forest by employees who try to protect the Forest in their own way. The main thing I asked for was compliance with OSHA so that I can follow the law with my organization's volunteers and our interns. This Forest could not stop asking me to break the law and unfortunately when other volunteers agree to break laws, it drives the law abiding volunteers out. This forest needs a strong, legal volunteer program like the ones on the surrounding forests, yet it continues to punish and retaliate against volunteers who ask for legality and the rights afforded to them by OSHA. My interns were F bombed by this Forest's employees, I was called insubordinate for asking the communications center why the radio frequencies no longer worked on our radios, asked to agree not to report any accidents and sign a paper to that effect. When I did not cooperate, the Forest refused to back my grants in retaliation. The ranger refused to meet with me. I made their actions public and was terminated as a result as an organization one year ago after working on the forest for nearly 8 years. I was not educated about Civil Rights like I should have been.There were other organizations also let go for asking for current JHAs, etc. There are no volunteer orgs for any trails here now of any significance, other than PCTA which has a separate governance outside of the Forest. For non motorized, it suits the forest to just have the public cut it as they then have no liability or work of oversight, but in motorized, it needs the volunteer labor match, which it does not have now. Apparently the Forest thought it was okay to put my orgs name in here without my knowledge, without a volunteer agreement and fully knowing that they terminated us a year ago. United Trail Maintainers does not work on this forest. It is not okay to use our name as volunteer match in this grant or to use our name as volunteers here for the Forest's convenience. We would gladly support this grant financially and with labor, if it were honest and done the right way, following the agency's directives and the law. We hope that some day the many idle volunteers will return to this forest, but only when it has integrity and supports the directives and initiatives of the agency. The Forest Service today is faced with severe budget cuts and it needs our support as volunteers and partners more than ever, but I do not recommend supporting this grant because you would be rewarding an attempt to deceive OHMVR. Sequoia NF has a great OHV system, but we need to stop allowing a Forest to not follow its own agency policies and directives. No matter how tough times get, do not allow the real values of the Forest Service to be compromised. On other forests, I attended Civil Rights training and I learned how to stand up for myself and others. I intend to practice what I was taught to do in these compromising situations, even if it costs me this non-profit. This Forest needs to find the right way to sit down with the trail maintenance community and establish strong, legal program. This is in no way a poor reflection on CTUC as they did not know that UTMC was terminated They followed the guidance of the FS. Nonetheless, it is not okay to excuse the lack of integrity in the FS and I can only hope that at some point they would like to try a do-over as there are so many volunteers who would love to help the right way, like we do on the surrounding forests. Please continue to support OHV on Sequoia NF, but do not support this grant as written. Thank you, Beth Pfeiler President, Untied Trail Maintainers of California Beth Pfeiler/UTMC - 4/24/2019


“I am the North District Vice President for the Cal4Wheel Association. I oversee several clubs in my area of California. I have spoken with Mike McGarity and I am in favor and support of our efforts within this Grant Application. We work with the Cal4Wheel Association Club liaisons who are all aware of this grant application. If this grant is awarded, I will hand out the education and safety items within this grant to the club liaisons which can then be given out at their club meeting across the state. These clubs will be able to spread the materials to all their members and the OHV public through their public interactions.” Peety Woll - 4/30/2019


“I am the North District Vice President for the Cal4Wheel Association. I oversee several clubs in my area of California. I have spoken with Mike McGarity and I am in favor and support of our efforts within this Grant Application. We work with the Cal4Wheel Association Club liaisons who are all aware of this grant application. If this grant is awarded, I will hand out the education and safety items within this grant to the club liaisons which can then be given out at their club meeting across the state. These clubs will be able to spread the materials to all their members and the OHV public through their public interactions.” Peety Woll - 4/30/2019


I am commenting on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle Association. I would like to see these two grant requests get fully funded. The operations grant is modest and supports important opportunity. I use two of the CTUC map apps and when I need them, I really need them to work. Please keep them up to date. Thank you CTUC for all the paper and digital maps. They have made my adventures and countless others more enjoyable. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Inyo NF Ground Operations for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair of the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR) Ground Operations - Sequoia NF / CTUC Collaboration 2020 http://olga.ohv.parks.ca.gov/egrams_ohmvr/user/ReviewProjects.aspx Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 5/6/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Inyo NF Ground Operations for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair om the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR) http://olga.ohv.parks.ca.gov/egrams_ohmvr/user/ReviewProjects.asp Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 5/6/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Inyo NF Ground Operations for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair of the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR) http://olga.ohv.parks.ca.gov/egrams_ohmvr/user/ReviewProjects.asp Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 5/6/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Inyo NF Ground Operations for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair of the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR) http://olga.ohv.parks.ca.gov/egrams_ohmvr/user/ReviewProjects.asp Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 5/6/2019


Click to download letter Stewards of the Sequoia- 5/6/2019


The Clovis Independent 4 Wheeler's have performed several hundred volunteer hours of invaluable time each year toward maintenance activities on roads and trails that have contributed to increased water quality, decreased soil erosion and improved OHV recreational access. This grant will allow them to continue this good work. The continued reduction of the Forest Service road and trail maintenance budget has caused roads and trails to deteriorate to an unacceptable condition. Lack of proper maintenance has led to drainage structure failures and water quality degradation. Brush encroachment and downed trees on some roads and trails has begun to restrict motorized access and use. The Sierra National Forest needs as much help as possible for road and trail maintenance. Significant work is needed so that legal OHV trails and forest roads are kept open for the public OHV use. This work will reduce potential adverse conditions. Many of these roads and trails provide access to and from Bald Base Camp, a dispersed camping area; including other recreational destination points. This project will improve motorized access, water quality, signage, and enhance the overall OHV experience within the SNF. The Sierra National Forest is safer for all visitors to enjoy its many recreational opportunities due to the work this grant has and will hopefully continue to fund. The entire OHV and off-roading experience have improved thanks to their hard work. Paul Brady - 3/10/2019


I feel that with the State of Ca. money situation their only option to keep of forest service lands open to public access is through volunteer work . The problem is not getting the volunteer the problem is being able to fund the volunteers and their projects , more money ( a lot more money ) of what is being allocated needs to go to volunteer work because really that is the only way things are being done to keep our public lands open to public access . Steve Neel - 3/11/2019


I feel that with the State of Ca. money situation their only option to keep of forest service lands open to public access is through volunteer work . The problem is not getting the volunteer the problem is being able to fund the volunteers and their projects , more money ( a lot more money ) of what is being allocated needs to go to volunteer work because really that is the only way things are being done to keep our public lands open to public access . Steve Neel - 3/11/2019


The Clovis Independent 4 Wheelers Volunteers have a very strong presence working with the National Forest Staff in maintaining the trails. All the trails. In many instances, the volunteers do the majority of the work to ensure we can keep them open for the public and not closed due to not being properly maintained otherwise. The volunteers need materials, tools, supplies and PPE in order to accomplish this. This grant funding is absolutely needed to the Volunteers who are directly working on the Ground. The Volunteers make this grant happen. Volunteer Adopt-A-Trail clubs/groups need Chainsaws, Vehicle Use or Mileage reimbursement while on the project activities listed within this grant. Volunteers are absolutely vital in order for the NF to fulfill the contents of deliverable's mentioned within. Thank you for all you guys do!! McGarity Mike - 3/15/2019


This group of dedicated volunteers has worked tirelessly to assist the USFS Sierra district in maintaining the roads and trails and should be funded. Edward Mann - 3/21/2019


The Clovis Independent 4 Wheelers provide much needed services for the OHV community and general public who recreate in the Sierra National Forest. I have personally observed the grant work this group has completed on the Forest. The maintenance activities were completed were of high quality and improved trail conditions and water quality. The Sierra NF is very fortunate to have a volunteer organization such as this to assist in OHV trail maintenance. This project is OHV funds well spent. Steve Cowdrey - 3/29/2019


I support the great work that Clovis Independent 4 Wheelers do. Brian Hansen - 4/10/2019


I am writing in support of this grant for ground operations in the Sierra National Forest. The Clovis Independent Four Wheeler's have a good history of ground operations and making improvement to the Bald Mountain area. They have worked to improve the the environmental management and protect species. This grant will help the club continue the good work supporting the forest. Steve Egbert - 5/4/2019


Clovis Independent 4 Wheelers work hard to keep the trails they work on safe and clean. They have done a great job of making sure the trails are going to be open and free of any hazards. i have been on their trails anc they have done a great job of doing this in the past years. Some of the great work they have done works great to show the general public that this grant money is being put to great use. They not only are good stewards of the land but they help educate people of what work is done. They work very hard on the trails and this is a great opportunity for them to do this work.

This grant will be money well spent when someone is lost or injured in these desert areas. Funding search and rescue should be a top priority, as a retired fire dept technical rescue team Battalion Chief i have seen the need first hand . Edward Mann - 3/21/2019


solar farms, and expansion of OHV activity in the Onyx Ranch SVRA - it makes sI am commenting for Desert Survivors, an non-profit organization focused on desert hiking and conservation issues. Our 400 members are largely from California and recreate frequently in the Mojave desert area. Last spring we participated in a work weekend at the Western Expansion. We saw firsthand where lack of fencing allowed illegal trespass onto tortoise preserve lands. Desert Survivors supports this grant request because fencing is vital for the long term restoration of tortoise habitat in the Expansion. Given the trend in this area of the Mojave towards destruction and damage to tortoise habitat from various actions - Navy's Cuddeback expansion, increasing acreage of ense to financially support the group doing the most work in this region to protect and increase tortoise populations. Barbara Bane - 3/11/2019


Click to download letter - 5/6/2019


A cost item was omitted from this grant for weed control on the lake bottom. Last year this was done though a contract for weed control and the cost was approximately $80,000. A contract or other provision for $80,000 to provide weed control will be especially important this year due to the unusually large amount of rain which is likely to cause record weed proliferation. Bruce Whitcher - 3/21/2019


As a long time user of this area i have seen much responsible improvement over the last 40 yrs accomplished by this group, i believe they should be fully funded. Edward Mann - 3/21/2019


This project must be funded to continue the great work of this project. Edward Mann - 3/21/2019


Please fund this deserving Volunteer Fire Dept, in this area there are many OHV use areas and these folks need the funding to continue being there when needed. Edward Mann - 3/21/2019


Funding the Kingsburg 4 Wheel drive clubs ground operations grant is in the public’s best interest. The reduction in the Forest Service road and trail maintenance budget has led to roads and trails conditions to deteriorate to an unacceptable condition. The lack of proper maintenance has led to drainage structure failures and water quality degradation. Brush encroachment and downed trees on some roads and trails has begun to restrict motorized access and use. The K4WDC have been continuously growing in membership and I support their request for grant funding to provide tools, supplies, road and trail signs, route markers, safety gear and equipment to support their volunteer efforts up in the Sierra National Forest. Paul Brady - 3/10/2019


The Kingsburg Volunteers have a very strong presence working with the Sierra National Forest Staff in maintaining the trails. All the trails. In many instances, the volunteers do the majority of the work to ensure we can keep them open for the public and not closed due to not being properly maintained otherwise. The volunteers need materials, tools, supplies and PPE in order to accomplish this. This grant funding is absolutely needed to the Volunteers who are directly working on the Ground. The Volunteers make this grant happen. Volunteer Adopt-A-Trail clubs/groups need Chainsaws, Vehicle Use or Mileage reimbursement while on the project activities listed within this grant. Volunteers are absolutely vital in order for the SNF to fulfill the contents of deliverable's mentioned within. Thank you Kingsburg Club for all you guys do!! McGarity Mike - 3/11/2019


I support the proposed grant for the following reasons. The Kingsburg 4Wheel Drive Club promotes “Tread Lightly” programs and has invested 100’s of volunteer hours towards it. The current lack of road maintenance is causing drainage issues which in turn negatively affect water quality along with downed trees and overgrown brush have further impacted proper access to these public lands. The proposed grant will provide tooling, supplies and safety gear to support their volunteer efforts to improve the conditions in the Sierra National Forest. Steven G Peckham - 3/13/2019


The Kingsburg 4 Wheel Drive Club Volunteers have a very strong presence working with the National Forest Staff in maintaining the trails. All the trails. In many instances, the volunteers do the majority of the work to ensure we can keep them open for the public and not closed due to not being properly maintained otherwise. The volunteers need materials, tools, supplies and PPE in order to accomplish this. This grant funding is absolutely needed to the Volunteers who are directly working on the Ground. The Volunteers make this grant happen. Volunteer Adopt-A-Trail clubs/groups need Chainsaws, Vehicle Use or Mileage reimbursement while on the project activities listed within this grant. Volunteers are absolutely vital in order for the NF to fulfill the contents of deliverable's mentioned within. Thank you for all you guys do!! McGarity Mike - 3/15/2019


The Kingsburg 4 Wheel Drive Club has been a huge help in the area on trail work. It is nice to see they have the opportunity to apply for a grant to help them make a difference in the area. this grant will help them improve the abilities they have to do work. The ground operations that they will be able to do with this grant will be amazing since they work on the trails as if they are their own land keeping them clean and all the work they do is very safe and of high quality. Landon Gipe - 5/4/2019


The Kingsburg 4 Wheel drive Club has been an asset to the OHV and Forest Service Community for several years. They have volunteered many hours of their personal time and have used their own equipment and vehicles (at their expense) to help the forest service and other OHV clubs maintain trails and campgrounds. Without their assistance many of these areas would have been inaccessible or closed due to hazardous conditions and or erosion of trails to access these areas. The Kingsburg Club has many members who have now completed the First Aide/CPR course and have become chainsaw certified through the forest service. This training is a requirement and is vital to their continued commitment to assist the forest service and the OHV community in keeping access open to these recreational areas in the Sierra Nevada Forest. This grant will enable the K4WDC to become more involved, take on greater responsibilities to become a more efficient and productive entity of the forest service/OHV communities Michael Magana - 5/4/2019


I noticed that the hand tools project deliverables did not match the notes used in the project cost estimate. It appears that the chainsaw notes were used by mistake. Project deliverables description. Materials / Supplies-Hand tools. These hand tools are needed for the volunteers in our club and will provide K4WDC the tools needed to assist in project activities such as maintenance; removal of unsafe trail and road hazards. Tools include; without limitation: axes, shovels, McLeods, Pulaskis, Log Pivey, pruning shears, rock bars, wedges, rope and chain. This needs to be edited in cost estimate portion as the chainsaw notes appear to have been submitted here in place of the hand tools notes. Project cost 2. Materials / Supplies-Hand tools Notes : Materials / Supplies-Chainsaws Notes : The past 2 years we added more volunteers who were trained by the SNF in their Chainsaw Certification courses. We are requesting chainsaws which will be used to cut and remove downed trees that have blocked the trails and roads. Additionally, these saws will be used to cut and remove brush vegetation that are encroaching trails and roads and restricting travel. This should be corrected to adequately supply this club with the hand tools needed to complete this project. Michael Magana - 5/6/2019


National Youth Project using Minibikes

NYPUM is a terrific way for today's youth to spend time learning safety and teamwork while having fun with their peers in an environment constructive to their age. I recently had the privilege of having a child experience what NYPUM has to offer, and wish I had the opportunity when I was his age. I am grateful to NYPUM for providing him with such a positive experience. I believe a grant from the state of California can help other children in the future have the same opportunity for education and growth, all while having fun in a positive way that they will remember fondly. Peter Romero - 5/3/2019


I would like to comment on Madera Counties grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. I love the NYPUM program and think it is a great way to get kids to do the right thing. I have volunteered with the El Centro group and think it is very worthwhile. What I don't understand is the three separate requests for NYPUM. Would it be better for all three to get together for one common grant? However you fund it, please keep it going. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019



Sonoran Joint Venture Binational Bird Conservation 738 North Fifth Avenue, Ste. 102 Tucson, AZ 85705 520-882-0837 www.sonoranjv.org 1 March 2019 To Whom it may Concern, I coordinate the Sonoran Joint Venture (SJV), a binational partnership for the conservation of the unique birds and habitats of the southwestern U.S. and northwestern Mexico. We bring together partners on both sides of the border to determine shared threats and identify the highest conservation priorities. One of the high priority birds in the SJV region is LeConte’s Thrasher, a species showing significant population declines and listed as species of conservation concern by both the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Partners in Flight. One of the greatest immediate needs for this bird is to improve our understanding of LeConte’s Thrasher distribution and habitat needs. Expanding the scope of the surveys currently being conducted by Dan Cooper and Bill Haas would make a considerable contribution to this lack of knowledge and improve conservation and management efforts for this species in rapid decline. The results of this work would also be a valuable addition to the efforts of the Desert Thrasher Working Group, which is undertaking efforts to improve our understanding of LeConte’s and Bendire’s Thrashers in southwestern deserts and halt declining population trends. Dan Cooper (Cooper Ecological Consulting) has been a valued partner of the Sonoran Joint Venture for many years and we have collaborated on multiple projects in the southern California Desert. He and Bill Haas (Pacific Coast Conservation) are highly qualified to conduct this work. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. Sincerely, Jennifer N. Duberstein, PhD Sonoran Joint Venture Coordinator Jennifer Duberstein, Ph.D. - 3/5/2019


RE: Bird and Bat surveys of Bureau of Land Management Lands in Eastern Kern County, California To Whom it May Concern, I am the Research Director for the Southern Sierra Research Station and have been conducting research on various bird species in Kern County for over 30 years. The Southern Sierra Research Station is a nonprofit that is dedicated to collaborating with government, academic and conservation organizations to increase the scientific knowledge of at-risk species in order to better inform environmental policy and land management decisions. The study proposed by Bill Haas and Dan Cooper will help provide much needed information on several sensitive species such as the Golden Eagle, Western Burrowing Owl, LeConte’s Thrasher, Bendire’s Thrasher as well as riparian and desert birds in general. The information gathered on the Thrashers are particularly important because both species have had significant population declines and we need more information on their distribution and habitat requirements. In addition, they are listed as species of conservation concern by both the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Partners In Flight. Lastly, this study will also provide important information on several species of bats such as California Myotis, Fringed Myotis, Mexican (Brazilian) Free-tailed Bat, and Pallid Bat. I have known both Bill Haas and Dan Cooper for over 20 years; they are both well qualified to conduct this work. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need more information. Sincerely, Mary J. Whitfield Research Director Mary J Whitfield - 3/26/2019


This is an important grant to fund because it provides safety for OHV trail users. It also provides information so people are aware of potential negative impacts on resources, delivered by peers. Karen wilson - 4/29/2019


I would like to comment on the Rescuue 3 grant request on behalf of the California Off-Road Vehicle association. This is a modest grant that really helps OHV users in the Mojave desert. I hope you can fund this grant as much as possible. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2019


This is a great organization (a TRUE Non-Profit unlike the SCMFers) that has been operating and SAVING LIVES for over 50 years! Such a tremendous benefit to the trail-use and off-road racing community that their contribution is immeasurable and irrefutable, to say the least. They ask for about $7,000 for 'uniforms' BUT this would outfit to to 35 of their medically-trained volunteers with HIGH VISIBILITY operational equipment that is vital for quick recognition of Rescue 3 personnel in a situation involving a medical need that may require immediate life-saving attention. Requested funds for medical supplies, EMS Bags, electronic equipment, PPEs, and other various line items are well in line with perspective needs that will benefit all desert and outdoor recreation users. Surely, they would not discriminate if coming across a stranded hiker, a beleaguered bicyclist, nor an injured and dehydrated equestrian-enabled traveler. TOTAL being requested amounts to $117,764.00 with a healthy $195,675.00 in matching contribution which brings about a $313,439.00 value for all to appreciate! PLEASE be sure to FULLY FUND this extraordinary endeavor of insurmountable accomplishments that will greatly help to ensure the safety and well-being of my fellow trail-use enthusiasts! Drew A - 5/6/2019


The Sierra Avalanche Center has developed into a organization that provides professional Avalanche Forecasts and educational opportunities. The Forecasts are used by many back country users and professional guides within the State of California. The outreach with educational opportunities to the OSV users is among the only in the state. Over the years the support provided by the OHV programs can be credited for allowing this program to expand to a high level of effectiveness and visibility. The partnership with this California State Park program is something all parties should be very proud of and strive to continue for the future. This Grant needs to be approved as submitted. Bob Moore - 3/8/2019


Sierra Avalanche Center provides an invaluable service to the public. This grant would undoubtedly save lives and improve the backcountry winter experience for all users. I hope to be able to attend several of the educational opportunities this grant would afford. SAC does a great job of informing the public of when their events take place and how a person will benefit from attending. Janey Balvin - 3/12/2019


I have had the pleasure of taking a Avalanche level 1 course from the excellent instructors at the Sierra Avalanche Center and I truly hope that the organization is able to continue offering these life saving courses. This avalanche class is extremely important to our community and large population that lives and recreates in Avalanche country. The instructors provide in depth knowledge of the weather, forecast, terrain selection, including a daily decision making process and an emphasis on how to pick your riding partners to ensure you come home safe. The curriculum also encourages students to share the knowledge with others which greatly expands the impact of this life saving education. I want to express my sincere support for the Sierra Avalanche center and the incredible services that they provide our community and I hope that the organization continues to receive the grants needed in order to offer this type of awareness and education for years to come. Brandon Corbett - 3/13/2019


Having recently attended the motorized avalanche 1 course, I can't speak highly enough on the course content and expert level on instruction from Travis and Andy. This course and all of the information Sierra Avalnache Center provides is crucial to public safety and does reduce the number of injuries and casualties. The only negative I can say is I think there should be more courses available and possibly different time scheduling for those who cannot make the Friday portion due to work. Maybe a sat/sun 12hr each day option. I hope to take AV2 next year and it would be awesome if more of those classes were available through Sierra Avalanche Center. SAC is my most trusted source for local mountain conditions, and an invaluable resource to the entire snow sports community. Ryan Gilruth - 3/13/2019


This is such a worthy program for all backcountry enthusiasts. The beneficiaries are not only the participants of the sport but also rescue teams, other back country users and all governing bodies. I was fortunate enough to participate in one of the three-day courses two years ago. It would be great if there were more courses available each year as they are very difficult to get into and fill up immediately. Please continue the support of this valuable resource. As a matter of fact, provide more than they are requesting so additional courses can be added! Tom D'Arcy - 3/13/2019


Sierra avalanche center is an awesome resource for the ohv and backcountry community. We check their forcast daily, follow them on social media and think of them and their services as the gold standard to snow in the Tahoe/truckee area. My husband and I were fortunate to have attended one of the avalanche classes put on through ohv grant funds, we feel much more comfortable going out with skills and knowledge we gained from the class. We now make informed decisions based on what we learned in class. Teresa Wik - 3/14/2019


Hello, My name is Nicholas Kniveton and I am an avid backcountry snowmobiler. Recently, I took a Motorized Level 1 Avalanche Course from SAC. The course was invaluable, completely changing how I thought about avalanches, backcountry safety, and overall risk management. I have no doubt that the education this class provided will result in a snowmobiler who would have otherwise been caught in an avalanche returning safely back to their family. I understand that there are many Level 1 avi courses out there but SAC's is the only one I know of in California that focuses on motorized users of the backcountry, who access terrain in a far different manner (faster travel, more terrain, etc) than skiers or snowshoers. Level 1 classes are typically very expensive, often costing more than $500, so the grant from the OHV is vital to ensuring this class is accessible to those who wouldn't normally be able to afford it. In the grant I saw that there is a request to purchase a snowmobile. I believe this is an excellent use of OHV funding. In the class I took, two snowmobiles suffered mechanical problems throughout the weekend. A mechanic in our group was able to repair one but more serious electronic issues in another snowmobile immobilized it. Luckily, one member of the class happened to have a spare snowmobile that we were able to use. However, if this were not the case the entire class would have been disrupted. Purchasing another snowmobile would help ensure that the classes can be conducted despite mechanical problems. I also noticed a request in the grant for funding for the daily avalanche forecast. This forecast is a tool vital for many backcountry snowmobilers, ensuring we are able to make educated decisions about what terrain in the backcountry to snowmobile. Including funding to ensure that SAC is able to gather observations from sites used by primarily by snowmobiles that wouldn't receive observations from the ski-based forecasters would improve safety for all motorized users. Nicholas Kniveton - 3/14/2019


Deserving Educators of Avalanche safety education Ryan Schopen - 3/15/2019


Deserving group of local educators. Ryan - 3/15/2019


The Sierra Avalanche Center's daily avalanche advisory and avalanche safety courses for motorized backcountry users provide vital, life-saving information and instruction to an important group of backcountry users throughout the region. This critical resource allows motorized backcountry users to make educated decisions in avalanche terrain and promotes the safe and responsible recreational use of California's public lands. I urge you to fund this vital program and continue supporting the vital educational resources and daily safety information provided by the Sierra Avalanche Center. David Bunker - 3/25/2019


This organization is such a good use of funds and should be granted the entire amount asked for in the grant. They open and provide maintenance on a huge next work of trails every year. I think the estimated use of the trail useage at 600,000 is low and is a testimate of the hard work they provide each year. They partner with numerous groups of volunteers to get these trails to peak performance. Cannot say enough about the work they provide and an asset to an small community who would not be able to do it otherwise. Keep them going! Matt Boyd - 3/15/2019


SBTS is a fixture of the Sierra County community, and without their efforts, towns like Downieville would have little economy left to survive. The work they do benefits not just the local community, but also recreational trail users of all types, including both motorized and non-motorized. I emphatically support SBTS receiving OHV grant money to help keep these important public assets open and usable to the public. Kurt Gensheimer - 3/24/2019


The Outdoor Recreation Leadership Program at Feather River College supports the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) and their grant application. SBTS will employ local Plumas County residents, Feather River College students, and high school students to complete the trail maintenance on this valuable resource. The work that the Stewardship does to build and maintain trails in our local areas directly affects the vivacity and economy of Plumas County. These trails are a great example of a valuable recreational asset on our forest. It offers an incredible opportunity for participants to explore the outdoors and build deeper connections to the environment. These trails invite hikers, bikers, and campers to explore locally, by staying, and playing in our local area. SBTS’ has a long history and legacy of safely leading volunteers on their projects. This not only gets the community involved, but it also builds stewards and investment in public lands. The efforts of the Stewardship and its volunteers have a direct, positive effect on our community. Please continue to support them in their vision of preserving responsible access to our area. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Saylor Flett -- Saylor Flett | Instructor | Guide | Photographer | Mountain Lover Outdoor Recreation Leadership Feather River College 570 Golden Eagle Ave. Quincy, Ca 95971 sflett@frc.edu | www.frc.edu/ORL | www.saylorflett.com p: 530.283.0202 Ext.216 | f: 530.283.3757 Visit us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/frc.orl Saylor Flett - 4/4/2019


The Outdoor Recreation Leadership Program at Feather River College supports the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) and their grant application. SBTS will employ local Plumas County residents, Feather River College students, and high school students to complete the trail maintenance on this valuable resource. The work that the Stewardship does to build and maintain trails in our local areas directly affects the vivacity and economy of Plumas County. These trails are a great example of a valuable recreational asset on our forest. It offers an incredible opportunity for participants to explore the outdoors and build deeper connections to the environment. These trails invite hikers, bikers, and campers to explore locally, by staying, and playing in our local area. SBTS’ has a long history and legacy of safely leading volunteers on their projects. This not only gets the community involved, but it also builds stewards and investment in public lands. The efforts of the Stewardship and its volunteers have a direct, positive effect on our community. Please continue to support them in their vision of preserving responsible access to our area. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Saylor Flett -- Saylor Flett | Instructor | Guide | Photographer | Mountain Lover Outdoor Recreation Leadership Feather River College 570 Golden Eagle Ave. Quincy, Ca 95971 sflett@frc.edu | www.frc.edu/ORL | www.saylorflett.com p: 530.283.0202 Ext.216 | f: 530.283.3757 Visit us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/frc.orl Saylor Flett - 4/4/2019


As a father to four boys, I'm always looking for ways to keep my kids engaged in outdoor activities. Downieville and the surrounding area is one of the places we go. My father passed down off road motorcycle riding to me when I was a boy and I want to pass that on to my boys. Having access to a wide variety of well maintained trail systems is exactly what I need as my boys age and progress in skill level. Matthew Crim - 4/4/2019


Love the trails that Sierra Buttes helps to provide. We love making a weekend out of it on our mountain bikes and then hitting a restaurant :) They do a lot of good for everyone and the community ! Doug Moore - 4/6/2019


The trails in and around Downieville are very important and it is critical to keep them open for public use. Trails attract visitors and visitors spend money, which helps the economy in struggling rural California counties. Trails provide recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, create local employment, and well built trails provide sustainable recreation opportunities that protect the watershed and require less maintenance. Lynn Baumgartner - 4/6/2019


To Whom It May Concern, I support keeping the Downieville trail system open, accessible and maintained. Myself,my friends, my family, and the worldwide mountain bike community have enjoyed this trail system. It has been world-renowned as one of the best mountain bike trail systems in the world for many years. I met many mountain bikers from around the world who have come to Downieville specifically to ride this trail system. It has contributed to my health well-being, life satisfaction, and overall quality of life. Mountain bike trail systems contribute to the local economies and have proven to be sustainable economic engines and help create jobs as well. Plus, they help people to connect to the land and reduce anxiety, increase creativity, and increase attention span. It is for these reasons that I am supporting the Downieville trail system. Thank you, Kevin Tatsugawa - 4/6/2019


Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has been building a maintaining trails for years and has provided employment and tourist opportunities for small communities. Please let them continue to let them use their expertise in trail maintenance to improve the Downieville Trail System and other trails in the Lakes Basin trail system. Using these trails is my passion and this organization is the group to do the job. Mark Kovacic - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


Please approve these grants for the improvement and maintenance of this area Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I support of keeping trails open, accessible and maintained. It's important for the following reasons: Recreation opportunities for visitors and locals Creates local employment Creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance Keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed Lisa Wilson - 4/6/2019


Hi, Exited to see the state keep supporting the area. We have been visiting Downieville for mountain bike vacations since 2008 and we bring groups of riders along. Everydody loves it!! Thanks for the support!! rigel rivera - 4/6/2019


Keeping the trails opened and maintained is important to both the local community and larger society. The Downieville trail system brings a large number of people into the area to hike and bike on the trails. This provides employment to people in that area and helps to keep that economy going. The SB trail stewardship does an amazing job at maintaining the trails that also in effect protects the local watershed which is good for the environment and again for the local economy. As well, we as a society, more than ever need outdoor opportunities as we become more and more domesticated and reliant on devices. These outdoor opportunities are what keep us happy and human. Funding the SB trail stewardship is the right thing to do. Jennifer Ray - 4/6/2019


Keeping the trails opened and maintained is important to both the local community and larger society. The Mt. Hough trail system brings a large number of people into the area to hike and bike on the trails. This provides employment to people in that area and helps to keep that economy going. The SB trail stewardship does an amazing job at maintaining the trails that also in effect protects the local watershed which is good for the environment and again for the local economy. As well, we as a society, more than ever need outdoor opportunities as we become more and more domesticated and reliant on devices. These outdoor opportunities are what keep us happy and human. Funding the SB trail stewardship is the right thing to do. Jennifer Ray - 4/6/2019


Having these OHV areas open and marked helps keep my family in the forests having a great time. Without the ability to maintain or expand these places become overburdened with people especially with the past fire seasons closing down so many places. FUND THESE GRANTS Taylor Tobler - 4/6/2019


The entire trail system in downieville is incredible and needs to maintained and expanded! Matt MTBing Adventures - 4/6/2019


Downieville trails are such an important part of our region and its imperative to keep then funded and well maintained. I drive all the way from Reno to recreate and spend money in the local community. Please support this effort! Orlin Orlin Bowman - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


I'm advocating for this grant to help this area's trails Steven Morgan - 4/6/2019


Having grown up these mountains I know how much value this trail system brings to so many. To be able to share this with my family and friends for generations to come means so much. Grants like these bring trials to the people but also build a community for generations to come. commenting like this is easy, i can't wait to be there with tools in hand to help anyway I can. Dirt magic is real. Thanks mark weir - 4/6/2019


Having grown up these mountains I know how much value this trail system brings to so many. To be able to share this with my family and friends for generations to come means so much. Grants like these bring trials to the people but also build a community for generations to come. commenting like this is easy, i can't wait to be there with tools in hand to help anyway I can. Dirt magic is real. Thanks mark weir - 4/6/2019


The trail development and maintenance of the trails in the Downieville area and in the lakes Basin has been instrumental in growing the economies of Downieville, Sierra City, Graeagle, Blairsden. The maintenance and repair of trails, staging areas is a key part of providing a world class trail system for all users. Please continue to support the work being done by SBTS and the hundreds of volunteers. Stuart Wik - 4/6/2019


Please fund trail projects performed by the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. They have been doing great work. The trails around Downieville are a local gem and a national recreational tourist draw, thus providing economic opportunity to the greater Downieville area. Trail maintenance is key to protection and enjoyment of the great resource that fine trails and the natural environment they exist in are. Jane Ragan - 4/6/2019


The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship does wonderful work on the trails for everyone to use. We enjoy the work they have done and hope they can continue their work. Jim Dallas - 4/6/2019


As a regular user of these trails for motorcycles, mountain bikes, and hikes and a SBTS member please keep maintenance and trial build grants funded. These trails are valuable for generations to come and give people the opportunity to explore and recreate in a beautiful part of California. As a global destination in the summer Downieville and nearby towns have become important to multiple communties of user groups. Thank you for supporting positive recreation and maintenance in our communities. Dustin Young - 4/6/2019


I live in the bay area. I've been riding dirtbikes & mountain bikes on Downieville trails for many years. Great trail system and SBTS is doing a great job helping the Forest Service maintain them. Please help fund SBTS work in Downieville. Its a gem that needs our OHV funds. Thanks for your support. Sincerely, Mike Chaplin - 4/6/2019


Dear Sir/Madam, The trail system in Downieville provides multi-user recreation opportunities, is a great example of different types of trail user cooperating, helps support the community by providing local jobs and revenue from tourism. The trails themselves are developed in such a way that they are sustainable, requiring much less maintenance and the work this grant would support would keep trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Kind regards, Andrew Parratt - 4/6/2019


I support the development of mtn bike trails in the Downieville area - great economic development to bring much needed tourist dollars to the area! Clayton Dewberry - 4/6/2019


The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship for Downieville Trail System grant will provide funds to maintain more than 60 miles of singletrack in the Downieville area of Tahoe National Forest, including Pauley Creek, Butcher Ranch, First, Second and Third Divide, Lavezzola, Chimney Rock, Empire Creek, Downie River Trail, Halls Ranch and Fiddle Creek trails. These trails are important for the local economy as they bring in essential revenue to an otherwise depressed area. The trail systems need to be properly maintained for safety of users, and protection of the forest. Outdoor Family Recreation is part of the fabric of American life, and a California tradition. Please help us to continue down this wonderful path. Thank you, Curtis L Brunn - 4/6/2019


I'm a strong supporter of the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship and what they bring to the Downieville area. Through their leadership, trail development, and maintenance, they have contributed significantly to the local economy through a thriving MTB shuttle business as well as open the door to recreation for thousands of participants throughout Northern California. In addition, SBTS has created employment in the area where it's needed. Please support their grant application so the Downieville system trails can be experienced by the broader public. Steve Minniear - 4/6/2019


Downieville is a unique place. Is only place in the whole of CA. where different kinds of trail users coexist without much conflict. Not only coexist but work together to better, and expend trail network. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is unique leader which has not only good intentions, but delivers on what is set to do. Tomasz Olesiejuk - 4/6/2019


Downieville is a unique place. Is only place in the whole of CA. where different kinds of trail users coexist without much conflict. Not only coexist but work together to better, and expend trail network. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is unique leader which has not only good intentions, but delivers on what is set to do. Tomasz Olesiejuk - 4/6/2019


I support this grant and the wonderful job SBTS does maintaining the trails in this system. It provides jobs to a small town and great opportunities for summer jobs for high school students. They build world class sustainable trails that are multi use and that is what's most important to me. Rod Glazebrook - 4/6/2019


I strongly encourage the grant be awarded to the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. No other group, including the USFS, can maintain the trail system to the level that they can. No other organization has as much positive impact to the economy and improves the quality of life for these rural communities. Thank you! phil kaznowski - 4/6/2019


This project has many great benefits for the public including: Recreation opportunities for visitors and locals Creates local employment Creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance Keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed Peter Pensotti - 4/7/2019


Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship provides a vital part in trail maintenance and building in the Downieville area. These trails provide access for OHV users and Mountain bikers who live and visit the area. The use of these trails benefit the local economy by providing jobs and bring money into local businesses. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship does amazing work with the resources they have and they help maintain and build sustainable trails, many of which see heavy use during peak riding seasons. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has a long standing history of providing maintenance and support of the Downieville Trail System. Please support and approve the grant request for the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. Colin Page - 4/7/2019


The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship does amazing work. They coordinate hundreds of volunteers to maintain trails and bring in lots of recreational users from all over the country for dirtbike and mountain bike activities among others. Andrew Surgent - 4/7/2019


As always Downieville and the surrounding trails play a crucial role in my summer recreation. thank you for your support. Daniel Kuhns - 4/7/2019


Grants for trail maintenance allows for continued access in the Sierra Buttes and Plumas National forest. Also, clear trail access and clearly marked trails will protect natural resources from spontaneous trail development. Bernard Louis Carroll - 4/7/2019


I use the trails in Downieville and surrounding area on a weekly basis. The trails in this area the most significant contributing factor to me living and working in Plumas County. This organization creates much needed employment opportunities for our community. And this trails promote tourism to our region. And would love to see even more historic trails receive regular maintenance. Eric Caubo - 4/8/2019


I support this grant and it will provide much needed trail maintenance and new multi-use trail opportunities. This is especially important given the demand from both locals and visitors for this type of trail system. Additionally it will provide local employment in the area, an area that is depressed economically. A robust and healthy multi-use trail system will allow the area to continue to transition more of a recreation based economy which will provide additional long term employment opportunities to the area. Frank Havlik - 4/8/2019


These trails are a vital part of the local economy. People from all over the country come to ride them! Please help keep them maintained. Thanks, DOUG MANN - 4/8/2019


To whom it may concern, I have been visiting the Downieville and Lakes Basin area for nearly 20 years now to fish, hike, bike and enjoy the unique beauty of this area. During this time I have witnessed first hand the positive impact that SBTS has had on so many facets of the community here. Aside from just creating recreational opportunities, SBTS has created and bolstered local employment; not just within their own organizations but for the local businesses that service the visitors coming to enjoy the outdoor experience. They have done such a good job that the organization is now looked at nationally as an example of the positive impact outdoor recreation can have for both the economy and overall wellbeing of their local community. Please consider them as the prime candidate for the Downieville Trail System Ground Operations so this area can continue providing world class ourdoor experiences for generations to come. My 4 year old who wont stop asking "when can we go camping at Downieville?" would certainly appreciate that! Thanks for your time and consideration. Chris Costello - 4/8/2019


The trail systems in Downieville and Quincy are the main reasons I travel to the region. Be it bikes or motorcycles or hiking, the trail systems and the level of professionalism around them are a major draw. Access to well maintained and managed trail system make me want to get outside and visit the region. Matt Atwood - 4/8/2019


This is a letter in support of the grants for the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship's Downieville Trail System Ground Operations. The trail system at Downieville is very important for the local economy and I enjoy using the trails on both mountain bike and motorcycle. Thank you kevin Sevier - 4/8/2019


Our family has accessed and utilized these trails and consider them treasures. I would appreciate continuity of care with respect to these recreational areas and trails. Thank you. Carmen San Juan - 4/8/2019


Our family has accessed and utilized these trails and consider them treasures. I would appreciate continuity of care with respect to these recreational areas and trails. Thank you. Carmen San Juan - 4/8/2019


The trail systems in the Downieville area are a key component in the economic well being of Sierra County. I support funding the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship for critical on-going trail maintenance in and around Downieville. Jamie Bate - 4/9/2019


Please keep investing in the Downieville trail system. Great communities create great trails and great trails create great communities. I've been visiting the Downieville area since the mid-1990's (exclusively for mountain biking adventure), and it is amazing what SBTS and partners (including moto groups) have done to improve and grow the trail system. That town would be beyond dead without these trails. Keep up the good work and allocate necessary funding to keep things on track, sustainable and fun for all. Thanks. Jeff Barker - 4/10/2019


This is a very important project for the local community and recreational trail users. It will help stimulate the local economy while creating local jobs. A win win for all. Please approve this grant to keep trails open while creating and maintaining sustainable trails systems that require less maintenance. Thanks for your support Johnnie Smith - 4/10/2019


Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship does such an amazing job maintaining and preserving the trails. They care about the area and nature and show genuine ‘love’ for the area. I wish there were more stewardship’s out there like them. Philippe Chordas - 4/13/2019


The Sierra Buttes Trail stewardship is a classic example of the system working correctly. Without all of their hard work the OHV trails and mountain bike trails in the Downieville and Quincy area would not be the destination they are today. They are world-class and should be supported with the OHV green sticker fund program. Chris Napolitano - 4/13/2019


Hi- I support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship application due to the incredible value the public is getting from the work taking place in their service area. They are transforming a rural area away from resource extraction into a recreational powerhouse of a community. Their work in the region and state is unparalleled and they should be awarded this grant. I am a business owner, outdoor enthusiast, locally elected official, representative of the Outdoor Industry Association and California Recreation Partnership. I do not speak for any of these organizations, but I include them to identify that my comments come from experience in the outdoor industry and in rural economic development. SBTS is creating local employment opportunities and sustainable trails that will hold up over time. There is no other worthy organization of SBTS caliber and I highly support their grant application and all the work they are doing. Sincerely, David Polivy Owner, Tahoe Mountain Sports Member, Truckee Town Council Board Member, Outdoor Industry Association Recreation Advisory Council Founding Board Member, California Outdoor Recreation Partnership David Polivy - 4/13/2019


I’m writing in support of the application of Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship to conduct trail maintenance in the Downieville region. SBTS is a world class organization that has delivered jobs, economic vitality, recreation opportunities and environmental quality to the northern Sierra. I have participated twice in Grinduro, a unique bicycle race that attracts hundreds of multi day visitors to the neighboring town of Quincy. I am a resident of Sacramento and despite the ease of access, had never been to this unique corner of California before my first Grinduro. Because of the work of SBTS, Downieville is now an internationally significant cycling destination. And I am now in the market for a mountain bike so I can better enjoy the world class Downieville trial network! I urge you to approve their application. Eric Holst - 4/13/2019


this use of public funds is invaluable. dollars go directly into creating jobs, sustaining trails and the local economy and keeping the experience safe and fun for all. anthony kordonowy - 4/13/2019


The Sierra is an amazing resource that needs to be accessible to the public in a responsible manner so it can be enjoyed by everyone forever. Vitally, keeping this particular area open for recreation provides much needed economic input to one of the most under severed areas of the state. By supporting SBTS in their trail maintenance works you will create long term, cost effective, sustainable access to this wonderful region. Olli Blackburn - 4/13/2019


Please give the SBTS as much money and freedom to create bike trails as you possibly can. Then give a little more. Dave Gove - 4/13/2019


The Downieville trail system is an area I often ride in. it is a great recreation area. The local economy depends on area users to provide income. The trails need maintenance and improvement to continue to draw users into the area. Funding is needed to maintain the trail system. Brian Gully - 4/13/2019


Hello. I'm writing to you to let you know that the Downieville trails are the MOST important trails to me to keep maintained. I own a home in Sierra County and as a super active individual enjoy the hard work those have done to maintain the trails. As an avid MTB rider and hiker and having hiked all over the world, these are some of the most beautiful trails I've been on. As you are aware Downieville is struggling community and I believe that trail users are a benefit to the economic community as they stay in town and eat at the few establishments. Please help keep this wonderful beautiful area accessible to those who live in the area and those who visit and enjoy the outdoors. Thank you. Denise Stebler - 4/13/2019


I am 67 yrs old and an avid mountain biker. It is vital to my mental and physical health . I really value the Downieville trails and encourage you to support the Stewardship. Thanks Chris Ketner - 4/13/2019


Hi, My comments are to support the funding request for Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. I became a member of SBTS over the past couple years, since my family have been coming up to Downieville region for several years prior. We embrace our time with family and friends up here and it is a highlight of our year. We are now getting more involved to support the community up here and see that funding would support jobs growth as well as ensure a sustainable recreation trail system - one that is safe to users and to the vegetation and wild life and water shed. Please support the funding request. Best Regards, Scott Steele - 4/13/2019


This is a critical recreation program for opportunities for visitors and locals to enjoy. We need more outdoor opportunities as our population increases and kids get more interested in their phones than getting out and enjoying the great outdoors. This program also creates local employment and creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance. It also keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed. John Robinson - 4/13/2019


This is a critical recreation program for opportunities for visitors and locals to enjoy. We need more outdoor opportunities as our population increases and kids get more interested in their phones than getting out and enjoying the great outdoors. This program also creates local employment and creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance. It also keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed. John Robinson - 4/13/2019


These trails and surrounding areas provide wonderful recreation opportunities for visitors and locals. The influx of visitors to the area helps grow and maintain local employment. The proper techniques in trail maintenance used by Sierra Buttes will crate sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance, keeping trails open and safe while protecting the watershed and the wildlife living in the surrounding area. Thank you for your consideration! Ryan Taggart - 4/13/2019


I live and ride Mt Bikes in the Bay Area, and for the most part, we are NOT allowed to build dirt biking trails in the woods here. So I volunteer to help Build trails for everyones enjoyment up in the Sierra Nevada. I put my trail building effort into an area where people actually appreciate my efforts. Building trails is very hard work, and when volunteers are willing to travel for hours and work on trails, its a big win for all outdoor enthusiasts. Lets help get California trail systems in great shape, with smart routes. Smart routing of trails, using volunteers, helps to mitigate trail conlict all over the state. We all want a place to enjoy our passion, new trails let us spread out. 36 million people in this state, and we all want a piece of nature. Todd McMahon - 4/13/2019


I am a mountain biker who lives in Marin County and travels annually to the Downieville area. I support allowing mountain bike organizations to maintain trails because I have seen what happens in Marin County where mountain biking trail stewardship is greatly restricted. The trails have erosion problem is that no one is allowed to fix except the Rangers who don’t have the time, resources or interest in doing so. As a mountain bike I care about minimizing impact the natural environment and I do not mind financially supporting proper trail maintenance. Daniel Damien Filiatrault - 4/13/2019


Great program to get city folks out into nature having fun, cycling and staying healthy. Keep the funding for this, please. Conrad R Essen - 4/13/2019


I put my full support into trail maintenance to preserve the world class trail system for this world class motorized and non-motorized use trail system. These grants should be given the highest priority. James Marks - 4/13/2019


I'm writing to express how important the Downieville and Quincy trails are to so many avid mountain biker , like myself, and even more so to the communities where these trails reside. These two counties rely heavily on the tourism that these amazing trails bring and the economic benefit it provides. Due to the amount of mountain bikers that visit this area in the summer, it's important to maintain these trails regularly to hopefully require less maintenance in the long run. This is needed in order to keep the trails safe and fun, as well as minimizing the ecological impact. This area is one of California's gems and should be cherished forever. Paul Bonifacio - 4/13/2019


Please support the work of the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. I have been travelling regularly to the Downieville area for 17 years and have been very happy to support local businesses (hotels, restaurants, bicycle rentals and shuttle services, house rentals) in order to enjoy the local mountain bike trails. While this is recreation to me, my friends and my family, it is employment and economic activity for the locals. Thanks in advance for supporting the SBTS with a Ground Operations grant so they can keep up their good work for the local community and visitors like me. Gilles Pelzer - 4/14/2019


I am writing to support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship's grant application. SBTS does excellent work building and maintaining trails. My family has been hiking, biking, and generally enjoying the Sierra Buttes / Lakes Basin area for many years, and we are always impressed by the work done by SBTS. They help make trails safer and more fun for all users. They also work to build sustainable trails that minimize damage to natural resources that could otherwise be caused by people going off trail, cutting through creeks etc. We have also done volunteer work with them, and really appreciate how they encourage people to give back to the trails they love! Please keep the grant money going to support SBTS so they can continue to support the local economy while helping minimize the damage that recreation can cause to the natural areas we love! Heather Day - 4/14/2019


I love visiting Downieville and using the mountain bike trails, I am all for it Nick Crockett - 4/14/2019


Please fund the grant to support trails in the Mt. Hough Trail System area. We have been hiking and riding in the Lakes Basin area for many years, and have heard so many great things about the Mt. Hough area trails. We are planning to take our kids there this summer for some mountain biking adventures. We love being able to get our kids outdoors, and would not have such great opportunities without all of the work being done to build and maintain multi use trails. Please help support this great work! Heather Day - 4/14/2019


Please support the work of the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship to connect Downieville to Quincy. I have been travelling regularly to this part of the Sierras for 17 years and have been very happy to support local businesses (hotels, restaurants, bicycle rentals and shuttle services, house rentals) in order to enjoy the local mountain bike trails. While this is recreation to me, my friends and my family, it is employment and economic activity for the locals. Thanks in advance for supporting the SBTS with a Ground Operations grant so they can keep up their good work for the local community and visitors like me. Gilles Pelzer - 4/14/2019


Would love to see an expansion of multi use OHV trails for this area. Great way to explore the beautiful terrain. David Kyle - 4/14/2019


Would love to see an expansion of multi use OHV trails for this area. Great way to explore the beautiful terrain. David Kyle - 4/14/2019


I support the SBTS grant application and urge you to accept it. SBTS does a fantastic job building and maintaining trails in this region. It brings many people to enjoy the trails and the influx of visitors really helps the local economy. Paul Daro - 4/14/2019


Support for the downieville trail system encourages recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, creates local employment and keeps trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Mark Thanassi - 4/14/2019


To Whom it May Concern, I would like to express my support for the Downieville Trail System Ground Operations grant funding and maintenance. These trails provide sustainable and healthy recreation for visitors and locals. Many local jobs are supported by trail visitors. I personally travel to the Downieville region to ride these trails at least 4 times per year. Each weekend I visit with a friend adds at least $300 to the local economy in the form of paying for food, shuttles and lodging. Multiply that by by a few thousand visitors and pretty soon you are talking about a real positive econimic impact. In sum, please continue to support Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship and the valuable trail work that they provide. Sincerely, Steve Stewart - 4/14/2019


Please support these amazing trails! Madeline Warren - 4/14/2019


I love these trails!! I'm a mountain biker and it's a highlight of my riding year to ride out there. Please support the maintenance and development of them, PLEASE! Jason King - 4/15/2019


PROVIDE RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR VISITORS AND LOCALS, INCREASE SUSTAINABLE PUBLIC ACCESS TO OPEN SPACE. AUDREY BIEHLE - 4/15/2019


This is a great trail system. I support using my OHV fees to keep this system operational and open to motorcycles and non-motorized vehicles as well. California needs more OHV trails for motorcycles. Thanks Anthony Traina - 4/15/2019


Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is a huge part of what draws me back, again and again, to this part of the world. Please support them in their mission to improve access and enjoyment of this crown jewel of California backcountry trails for all. Thank you! Dayton Crites - 4/15/2019


I think these programs / grants are a vital part of keeping trails open for recreation. Many rural counties have a recreational economy and these trail systems help employ folks, provide recreation for urban dwellers, maintain water quality by reducing erosion, etc, etc. I live in a rural county (Mono) and with more Federal Resources (money) going to fire suppression vs. operations and maintenance on existing facilities (trails, bathrooms, etc, etc), it is the non profits or Counties stepping and trying to fill this void. I could go on and on, but anybody who shows up for volunteer trail maintenance is trying to give back. I am highly supportive of this grant to help Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship maintain trail networks in the Sierra. I wish there was more funding available to do this important work. Thank you for your time. Gerry. Gerry LeFrancois - 4/15/2019


I support SBTS receiving this grant. Ensuring the Downieville and Quincy trail networks remain open to the public is crucial for recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, creates local employment, creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and keeps trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Downieville and Quincy are special communities that greatly benefit from the positive economic impact that outdoor recreation brings to the community. I've been hugely lucky to be able to enjoy the hardwork they have put into these trails. Andrew Peterson - 4/15/2019


Its an invaluable service that the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship provides. We need those trails to be maintained, and kept open for access to this part of our beautiful NorCal landscape. Gale B De Rosa - 4/15/2019


Its an invaluable service that the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship provides. We need those trails to be maintained, and kept open for access to this part of our beautiful NorCal landscape. Gale B De Rosa - 4/15/2019


The Downieville and surrounding region are so important recreationally to so many people. Please approve this grant so that SBTS can continue to provide recreational opportunities to those living and visiting the region. SBTS' work provides valued employment opportunities and local jobs and helps to create sustainable trails for all user groups while protecting the ecosystem and watershed. Sincerely, James Alcorn James Alcorn - 4/15/2019


Thank you for the great work you are doing. Downieville is known all over the US and beyond for the trail system and people from California and beyond visit and support the communities when they come to use the trails. I, my family, and my friends support the work you are doing. Thank you, Eduardo F. Llach 36 Churchill Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306 Eduardo F. Llach - 4/15/2019


I support SBTS receiving this grant. Downieville and Quincy trails are extremely important to me and my network. Ensuring these trail networks remain open to the public is crucial for recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, creates local employment, creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and keeps trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Downieville and Quincy are special communities that greatly benefit from the positive economic impact that outdoor recreation brings to the community. Lindsay Helmuth - 4/15/2019


We LOVE riding in the Sierra Buttes area for the following reasons: 1) amazingly beautiful forests and mountains. Continue to let them heal (from mining) and grow 2) so nice the area isn't highly developed. Nice town centers. And to keep it that way, jobs are needed for LOCAL people. This is a great way to continue that support 3) By going up there and milling around the towns, people (including me) have learned a lot about California history. 4) Saving national forests from development (i.e., housing, industry) help keeps the watershed safe for the future. Greg Gregory Gavalakis - 4/15/2019


I think we need more sanctioned mountain biking trails in California with a shared system where mountain bikers/hikers/horseback riders/dirt bikers can use trails that are sustainable to our ecosystem and safe to use for all. The pacific northwest does a great job with mulit-use trails where where all nature enthusiasts can exist on independent trial networks on the same mountain range. I do believe that the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is doing a great job at creating and maintaining trails for all. The Downieville trail is well regarded in the mountain bike community and brings riders in from all over the US. From a financial point of view, this provides economic well being to the towns of Downieville and surrounds. Please provide the grant to the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship so that we can all benefit from California's great outdoors! Reza Yazdani - 4/15/2019


I'm writing to lend my support for keeping trails open, accessible and maintained in both the Plumas and Tahoe National Forests. It's essential that organizations like the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship are funded and receive trail maintenance grants to continue their amazing work and make the Sierra Buttes available to future generations (like my kids) to enjoy and explore. Thanks for your time. Bill O'Brien William OBrien - 4/15/2019


support SBTS receiving this grant. Downieville and Quincy trails are extremely important to me and my network. Ensuring these trail networks remain open to the public is crucial for recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, creates local employment, creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and keeps trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Downieville and Quincy are special communities that greatly benefit from the positive economic impact that outdoor recreation brings to the community. Jonathan Lamb - 4/15/2019


To whom it may concern: I would strongly encourage CA-OHV to approve trail work grants for the Downieville and Quincy areas for public use. My family has owned vacation property in the Graeagle area for the past 40 years and we have enjoyed access to these trails with many families and friends. I would also like to mention the economic importance of these trails as they provide critically positive economic impact in two struggling California counties both in terms of local business revenue and local employment. These grants will allow The Stewardship to create sustainable, safe trail systems that require less maintenance while simultaneously protecting the watershed. Best regards, Tyson Godfrey Tyson Godfrey - 4/15/2019


We have been enjoying the Downieville trail network for over 20 years. We have an annual trip where we rent a home in Downieville or at the Lure, spend money at the local eateries, general store, and support the shuttle companies. Access to this great area is critical for future generations to be able to experience this grand piece of nature. Brent Forsythe - 4/15/2019


To whom it may concern, I am writing this to lend my support to the good work the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) does for the trails, watershed and people Sierra County. As someone who hikes, backpacks, fishes, mountain bikes, rides motorcycles, and resides in Sierra County, their hard work is appreciated and critical to the sustainable trail system that drew me, my family and friends to the area. The quality of trails and fact they are mixed use (hike, bike and moto) are the primary reason we recently purchased a home in Sierra County. The trails around Downieville provide low environmental impact access to the backcountry and much of the 75% of the county that lies beyond paved roads for many means of recreation. That access and resource also brings in thousands of tourists from outside the area, providing a much need source of revenue for the small and remote towns in Sierra County. The SBTS are the primary reason the trails remain in great condition and continue to attract so many outdoor enthusiasts to the area. Their hard work and professional trail maintenance knowledge also inspire others to care for the system and protect the resources that make the region so great. The SBTS are a model for other organizations to aspire to and follow. -Joe Joseph Inch iv - 4/15/2019


Please consider the Sierra Butte trail stewardship for your grant. The trails in Downieville provide recreation opportunities for both visitors and locals. Local employment is created from the tourism that is brought to the area by mountain bikers. The trail stewardship creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance. This stewardship enables the trails to be kept open and safe while at the same time also protecting watershed. I have been riding my bike in Downieville for decades. Sincerely, Holly Harris Holly Harris - 4/15/2019


The trail systems create recreation opportunities for visitors and locals alike. Not to mention they create local employment and sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance. Keeping the trails maintained also protects the watershed and keeps the people who ride them happy and healthy! Samantha Rick - 4/15/2019


This organization has worked with the area to create sustainable, public trails that draw people from long distances to visit the Downieville area. Bringing jobs for local population, and economic benefit for these smaller communities and an incredible, safe, sustainable way for the public to enjoy the area. I run a mountain biking group in Marin county and we set up frequent visits to the area. From visiting restaurants or staying at local hotels the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has been key. Chris Stanley - 4/15/2019


Comment Kelby Gardiner - 4/16/2019


A world-class organization that facilitates trail access across all user types. The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship plans, constructs, and maintains trails in the Lost Sierra, bringing trail users into the economically challenged area to experience the beauty of the region and much-needed business to the small towns. The Stewardship is much deserving of funding and I encourage approval of their grant to help them continue their great work for trail users and the community. Sean Mullin - 4/16/2019


The Downieville trail system is a phenomenal asset that draws me to the area for MTB recreation. Great work by the SBTS keeps sustainability and regulated use a priority and I highly value that. Thanks for the great work and I'm looking forward to more enjoyment of these trails in the future. Benjamin P Knox - 4/16/2019


The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has helped develop tourism in the Plumas, Tahoe, and Lassen National Forests and the work that they continue to do is helping create a more sustainable economy for the region. Please help this amazing agency continue pursuing its trail building goals. Matthew Meyerl - 4/16/2019


I recently got back into mountain biking after being away from it for years. My first ride back was on the Downieville trails and I was hooked all over again. The trail system was amazing and can't wait to get back out this year. This trails are well worth the effort to keep them in shape for everyone to enjoy. Nick Dewald - 4/16/2019


I support SBTS receiving this grant. Downieville and Quincy trails are extremely important to me and my network. Ensuring these trail networks remain open to the public is crucial for recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, creates local employment, creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and keeps trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Downieville and Quincy are special communities that greatly benefit from the positive economic impact that outdoor recreation brings to the community. Joel C Wilson - 4/16/2019


I support SBTS receiving this grant. Downieville and Quincy trails are extremely important to me and my network. Ensuring these trail networks remain open to the public is crucial for recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, creates local employment, creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and keeps trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Downieville and Quincy are special communities that greatly benefit from the positive economic impact that outdoor recreation brings to the community. Joel C Wilson - 4/16/2019


The work this group does is nothing short of inspiring...and has historically been done with limited-to-no-funding and has relied heavily (overly so) on volunteer efforts to create and maintain the extensive trail network so many of us 'out-of-towners' are privileged to enjoy once the weather cooperates. The economic impact of their efforts to/for the local communities as a healthy, sustainable and memorable attraction is substantial...without their hard work in creating and maintaining these attractions (and the resultant positive impact to tourism and related), the local economies would suffer - and likely to a degree that would make recovery difficult if not impossible to overcome. Funding is critical to these efforts...please don't shortchange this group or this region and what they offer to all of us. As an aside, I'm an avid outdoorsman and mountain biking 'enthusiast' that currently lives in the Bay Area - I've fished, hunted and mountain biked this area for decades, and witnessed how this area is enhanced by the efforts of the SBTS. These trails and their caretakers are world-class and deserve to be supported/kept that way. Jim Henderson - 4/16/2019


My family and I are so thankful for the work Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship provides to the local community. It is because of their work, and the events they put on, that we discovered the Lost Sierra and Lakes Basin area. In the last three years we’ve vacationed in Graeagle and the Lakes Basin area almost exclusively. We make five to six trips to Graeagle each year now. We hope they can continue doing this work, and driving economic development in the area Jonathan Irwin - 4/16/2019


Hi there. I just wanted to express my support for the grants being sought by the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship for Downieville and Mount Hough trail systems. I think it is important to support the creation, management, and maintenance of these trail systems in order to provide recreation opportunities for visitors and locals alike. These trail systems are truly amazing and they provide fantastic access to the beauty of the Plumas and Tahoe National Forests. They also support the tourist trade in the area and create opportunities for local employment. The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has done an amazing job of creating sustainable and safe trails while protecting the watershed. I believe that providing grants to help continue that work will be a great investment that will help keep these amazing trails open and support the local economy. Thank you. Bill Engelhardt - 4/16/2019


I support SBTS receiving this grant. Downieville and Quincy trail are very important to me and my friends. The SBTS does an amazing job of building and maintaining their trails to be safe, access amazing places, and be environmentally responsible by protecting the watershed. The economic impact from the outdoor recreation in these communities is enormous, every business in town benefits from the world class trails. John Parker - 4/17/2019


I approve of ground operations grants for SBTS, as they create local jobs, improve trails, create recreational destinations and keep trails open and safe while protecting watershed. Morgan Fletcher - 4/17/2019


The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is consistently providing incredible opportunities for the community and for all outdoor recreation enthusiasts. As an avid mountain biker, I am lucky to have the ability to ride trails in the Downieville area, from the classic to Big Boulder, etc. It wouldn't be possible to have access to these trails without the efforts of the Trail Stewardship. The Stewardship designs trails in an environmentally conscious manner while simultaneously creating fun trails for multiple ability levels. They provide both the local community and visitors with access the outdoors in a unique and unparalleled way. With the help of this grant, the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship can continue to allow people like myself to have access to the beauty of the Sierra. Kacy Roeder - 4/20/2019


Keeping our trails open for responsible recreation, while also protecting the watershed is an important and vital part of why I live in Plumas County. It also allows for much needed economic opportunity to bring in tourism dollars and also making sure to protect our watershed. Tiffiney Lozano - 4/20/2019


Recreation is good for our health and happiness. It also brings some well needed revenue to our counties citizens. Joe Russell - 4/20/2019


Recreation is good for our health and happiness. It also brings some well needed revenue to our counties citizens. Joe Russell - 4/20/2019


The Downieville trail system provides a great opportunity to bring local employment to hard-working individuals. I support SBTS because of its' commitment to creating and maintaining sustainable trail systems that are friendly to multiple users. Hannah Stewart - 4/20/2019


I support the work that Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is doing in the Tahoe NF and encourage the FS to continue supporting and their maintenance and development trails in the area. I was born and raised in Plumas county and have seen a significant change in the recreation attitude and community involvement since SBTS has been working in the region. The trail system has brought renown recreation to the region, brought in tourist's dollars to the community, and created local employment opportunities. I hope the FS will continue to support the SBTS work in the region. Trinity Stirling - 4/20/2019


I’m a Canadian, but Downieville is one of my favourite places on the planet. I have travelled to the area for mountain biking, camping and hiking numerous times. The trail system and natural beauty are incredible and the local people are so friendly - I have highly recommended Downieville to anyone I meet who loves the outdoors. I haven’t been out in a couple years because I have a 2 year old and a 4 year old so travel has slowed down a bit over the past few years, but I dream of taking the to the Sierra Nevadas and Downieville in specific to share with them the place that I have come to love so much. I hope that the people who help make this place accessible to tourists get whatever support they need and as an interested party I am always happy to play my part. Thank you for taking the time to consider my comments. Christopher Janca - 4/21/2019


The Downieville trail system maintained and improved by Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is extensive and provides an incredible recreational opportunity for visitors from all over the state and beyond. The visitors also provide economic stimulus to the small towns of Downieville, Sierra City, Bassetts and others. I have heard from several shop owners in town that "mountain biking is the new gold mining" for them. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship works through extensive volunteer outreach to stretch the funds that they do have and needs funds to support these events and their regular work. Sam Diaz - 4/21/2019


The trails are essential to the Plumas County future. They draw in folks from elsewhere and support the economy. They also insure the preservation of wild lands for enjoyment of generations to come. SBTS has been working on these trails selflessly and are completely worthy of any funding assistance to further their success. They have done a whole lot with what they've got and are an excellent investment to further human outdoor appreciation and preservation. They have educated and enlightened thousands. This is needed. We need to know what we have and value it before we accidentally lose it. Mari Roth - 4/25/2019


The trails are essential to the Sierra and Plumas County future. Their improvements and preservation could be the new big thing for areas of depressed economical status, such as ours. They bring new energy, money, young healthy people and remind locals how great it is to be in such an amazing environmental paradise. The trails and races draw in folks from elsewhere and support the economy. They also insure the preservation of wild lands for enjoyment of generations to come. SBTS has been working on these trails selflessly and are completely worthy of any funding assistance to further their success. They have done a whole lot with what they've got and are an excellent investment to further human outdoor appreciation and preservation. They have educated and enlightened thousands. This is needed. We need to know what we have and value it before we accidentally lose it. Erin Roth - 4/25/2019


Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) provides expansive support of trail maintenance and development in the Downieville area. It is important that this organization recieve funding to continue this effort for trail maintenance for 4 main reasons. Recreation opportunities for visitors and locals: I visit this town annually for bike riding, races and hiking with my wife. If it were not for the trail system it would not visit this town. Creates local employment: SBTS supports a bike shop, shuttle system, numerous eateries and lodging in the town on Downieville and Sierra city. Creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance: Well design trails require less maintenance and are meticulously maintained by the user group. r Keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed: Well design trails edirect water to streams and reduce erosion and reduce maintenance. Grant Gerlach - 4/29/2019


We love going up to the high country to bike and hike. The work that has been done on the trails makes our visits more enjoyable. By going, we not only enjoy ourselves but spend money eating and purchasing at local businesses. Bill Bill Brent - 5/5/2019


I am writing in support of Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship to continue keeping much of the Downieville and Lakes Basin trails maintained. I am from Paradise and have been recreating in the Downieville area since 2000. I am an active member with the group and see how great their volunteer days are. I see the excitement and the hard work and dedication and how professionally skilled their workers are at maintaining and building new trail. Having lost a bit of my riding area in Paradise and Magalia, I can't express enough how important it is to keep up on the beautiful trails of the Downieville region. Having awesome recreation activities within a 2 hour drive is sweet. The stewardship knows what they are doing, and I would like to continue to see funding go their way. Thanks!

Seems project deliverable description item 1, 2nd bullet should read: Revegetate and protect an additional 15 acres of OHV "restoration" sites as damage occurs in the next 3 years. They should also clarify where HMP sites will be restored further on in the grant. i support this grant. Mark Borchert - 5/4/2019


Directly below, you will find my questions & concerns for information provided on the evaluation criteria form: # Project Type Project Title Grant Request Match Total Project Cost 2013-14 G13-04-02-R01 Restoration (Baldy Mesa) 1,105,422 388,611 1,494,033 2014-15 G14-04-02-R01 Restoration (NO Projects) 664,152 694,425 1,358,577 2015-16 Not applied for Previous ‘3’ uncompleted 0 0 0 2016-17 G16-04-02-R01 Restoration (Rattlesnake, Baldy Mesa – East, Bee Canyon & Cleghorn Ridge) 985,704 517,620 1,503,624 2017-18 G17-04-02-R01 Restoration (Holcomb Valley II) ???,??? ???,??? 853,087 THIS YEAR, THE GREEDY "SO CAL MO FOES" ARE ATTEMPTING TO EXTORT $1,213,456 OF OUR GREEN STICKER FUNDS TO FINANCE THEIR CORRUPTION! 2013-14 G13-04-02-S01 Education & Safety 96,281 304,907 401,188 2014-15 G14-04-02-S01 Education & Safety 85,514 275,230 360,744 2015-16 G15-04-02-S01 Education & Safety 105,461 349,310 454,771 2016-17 G16-04-02-R01 Education & Safety 107,648 371,170 478,818 2013-14 G17-04-02-S01 Education & Safety ??,??? ??,??? 72,405 2013-14 TOTAL for BOTH Rest + Ed & Sfty 1,201,703 693,518 1,895,221 2014-15 TOTAL for BOTH Rest + Ed & Sfty 749,666 969,655 1,719,321 2015-16 TOTAL for ALL Education & Safety 105,461 349,310 454,771 2016-17 TOTAL for ALL Rest + Ed & Sfty 1,093,352 888,790 1,982,442 2017-18 TOTAL for BOTH Rest + Ed & Sfty ?,???,??? ???,??? 925,492 (From 2014-15 application) 5. For Applicant’s OHV grant Projects which reached the end of the Project performance period within the last two years, the percentage of all Projects closed out in accordance with Program regulations: Restoarion (their mis-spelling): G08-04-02-R01; Grant Period 7/1/09 - 6/30/12 & G09-04-02-R01; Grant Period 8/11/10 - 8/10/13 Safety & Ed: G10-04-02-S01; Grant Period: 7/13/11 - 7/12/12 & G11-04-02-S01; Grant Period 7/13/12 - 7/12/13 YET AGAIN - JUST AS EVERY YEAR PAST, I REITERATE MY POINT !!! It was filled in as 100% of deliverable accomplished yet I have personally been in these areas lately and have not seen ANYTHING resembling full completion of these projects. ONCE AGAIN, this was not addressed years prior and I expect it won’t be addressed this year either…WHY? ABUSE OF OUR OHV PROGRAM BY THIS PRIVATE ENTERPRISE WHO CONTINUES TO MASQUERADE AS AN OHV-FRIENDLY, NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION NEEDS TO BE PUT TO A STOP AND NOW, NOW, NOOOWWW !!! “SCMF staff hosted two publicly noticed meetings with the general public to review the grant process and discuss the proposed project. Meetings were held 1) February 5th, 2019; 6pm-8pm at the Forest Service Supervisors Office in San Bernardino and 2) February 6th, 2019; 7pm-9pm at Sizzler Restaurant in Corona, CA” These so-called “public meetings” were ONLY announced via their SBNFA-OHV “PRIVATE” bulletin board which is NOT made available to the general public. Only their members of this PRIVATE CLUB can access this site and has been this way since early 2011. Furthermore, the Sizzler Restaurant management STILL INSISTS that ALL attendees MUST purchase a meal when entering into the restaurant to attend this so-called ‘public meeting”. This MUST be changed to a more tolerable venue for MY green sticker funds to ever be considered to fund ANYTHING this group does. “ATV Safety Institute and/or Motorcycle Safety Foundation approved training courses are provided to the public”: This is NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC by any means and they should not be given a point. You have to a member of the volunteer program or a forest service employee. Three years ago, this group applied for a Restoration Grant (with no active restoration project mentioned anywhere). At that time, they claimed 100% of Projects closed out (10 points). Two years ago, they requested funds for a Program Assistant to the tune of $7,500 for 500 hours of work. AGAIN, Just two years ago, they asked for 2 positions to be funded at $55,,000+ each for THREE YEARS within a ONE YEAR GRANT totaling more than $165,000 !! ONCE AGAIN, An “OHV Patrol Volunteer Coordinator (applied for in the most covert, fiendishly stealthy and downright sneaky fashion) for TWO YEARS SALARY OF $94,890 ($47,445 per year) within a ONE CALENDAR YEAR PRESCRIBED RESTORATION GRANT !! I can possibly understand one (1) position which is applied for within the Education & Safety Grant but why another – ESPECIALLY with what was applied for two years ago and AGAIN LAST YEAR? By their own admission, the element of ‘recruiting…and monitoring “volunteers” is mentioned. This very element is supposed to be handled by the Volunteer Coordinator – a position they apply for grant funding for within their Safety & Education Grant to the tune of $54,600 this year (up from $51,480 last year, $50,086 two years agp, $49,610 three years ago & $48,000 the year prior to that). Three years ago, it was a “PART TIME” Program Assistant “Intern” for 15 hours a week to the tune of $12,000 a year PLUS… $10,350 in personal vehicle fuel expenses. Last year brought about the SAME position but only for $7,500 and calling the position a part time fulfillment in the request. IN THEIR OWN WORDS, “The Program Assistant is responsible for implementing program deliverables during the busy summer/fall season. SCMF will hire a full-time seasonal paid intern working directly with the Education Outreach Coordinator The “busy Summer/Fall Season” they claim? NOW, If the other two seasons are NOT BUSY, then why the need for a requested OHV Patrol Volunteer Coordinator within the Restoration Grant? Whoops, my fault, they call them RESTORATION SITE MONITORS and now want TWO of them to the CORRUPTABLY EGRECIOUS tune of $355,757 dollars all the while claiming TWO of these so-called 'monitors will collectively put forst 12,480 hours of WORK. How is this even possible without blatant violations of Calif Labor Laws??? FIRST RULE OF GOVERNMENT SPENDING, WHY BUY ONE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE TWO FOR TWICE THE PRICE?! WELL, I sense SCMF will be licking their lips and rub their hands together contemplating the awarding of MORE $$$ from OUR TAX DOLLARS !!! THEIR GREED FOR GREEN BACKS KNOW NO BOUNDS !!! Could this turn out to be “double dipping”? LIKELY a contingency plan should one of the other multitude of positions applied for are not funded!! If so, it should (NOOO - MUST, MUST, MUST) be disallowed. They brag so heavily about the work of the OHV Volunteers AND of the Adopt-A-Trail Program so why not utilize them? Maybe it’s about money once again. Bottom line, it appears they are spending too much money on employees $161,803 for ONE Greenhouse and Seed Technician who will allegedly put in 6,240 hours of work A YEAR??? Calif Labor Laws prohibit such a prolific amount of hours worked by one 'singular' person. After all, they are asking for POSITION, singular and not plural !! Greenhouse technician will work in tandem (why, are they not qualified enough to work without supervision?) SBNF personnel to keep seeds and plants disease free and ready to plant. This position will also lead volunteer groups and UCC crew in seed collection, storage, cleaning, andseeding and planting of restoration sites. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!! STOP THIS RAMPANT GREED EXERTED UPON OUR GREEN STICKER FUNDS !!! HERE IS YET ANOTHER GEM !!! Staff - Urban Conservation Corp Crew (10 persons at UNBELIEVABLE costs of $172,752 @ $36.00 / hour) YIKES YIKES YIKES I SAY !!! "SCMF's own Urban Conservation Corps (UCC) will be utilized to perform large scale projects such as fence installation, moving logs and natural barriers, and planting." COME ON, NOW !!! What about these AMAZING VOLUNTEERS they keep touting??? MONEY, MONEY, MONEY... It doesn't grow on trees (or DOES IT) ?? HERE'S ANOTHER ONE - THE HITS JUST KEEP ON COMING!!! Restoration Biologist (Get the solid rocket boosters out - we're heading for LOW EARTH ORBIT this time). WOW, a whopping 4,160 hours @ 34/hr to a mind-numbing $141,606 !!! This so-called "Biologist" is allegedly responsible for "assessing new restoration sites, recommending restoration plans for the sites, purchasing necessary supplies and coordinating with SBNF specialists to implement site plans. This biologist will then work with staff, crew". REALLY?!?!?! So this person is going to put in over 80 hours a WEEK doing their work SOLELY in regards to direct correlation with OHV activity! NOT LIKELY AND NOT AT ALL POSSIBLE !!!! SOMEONE SLAP SOME SENSE INTO THESE GREEDY GEESE (HONK, HONK, OUTTA DA WAY... GOTTA GET THAT GREEN STICKER MOH-NAY !!!) AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST, you will see this again in their Ed & Safety grant: $50 THOUSAND DOLLARS for a VOLUNTEER TRACKING SYSTEM !!! WHAT THE HELL DOES THE VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR (AKA: ED Outreach Coord) DO !!?? "Volunteer tracking platform will be custom design and implementation for $40K and an additional $5K per year for year 2 and 3 for maintenance and support. This system will track volunteer time spent in the field and give us live feed back on the conditions of sites, site needs, and provide historical data of the sites. It will allow for more staff time in the field by allowing real time reporting (and less office time for tracking and reporting). A ROBOT of some sort in direct communication with an AUTOMATED DRONE ??? FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ??? I SAY AGAIN - What the Hay-Yell !!! What is the Volunteer Coordinator doing with their time if not COORDINATING VOLUNTEERS ??? NOW they are in need of a TRACKING SYSTEM ?? NOOO !!! Safety and Education Grant - Not in support of this Grant (DOUBLE DIPPING)!! Based on only 1.5 million dollars available for the entire state (up from 1.3 a scant two years ago), ONCE AGAIN, THIS Grant applicant is asking for just under 10% of the available funds. In years past, they sneakily hid the application of funding an OHV Patrol Volunteer Coordinator within the Restoration Grant (for Two Years SALARY, no less!). The available funds need to be shared more evenly throughout all the Grant applicants. Below are my recommendations for this Grant applicant. Staff: OHV Program Coordinator position should be for a total of 30 hours per week – NO MORE THAN THAT !! Why would WE, the tax payers, allow for the funding of well over $100 thousand dollars (up from $98,925 years past) for TWO of the EXACT SAME POSITIONS PER YEAR ( WAY up from $50,086 two years ago, from $49,610 three years ago and from $48,000 the year prior to that) for position(s) whose main objective(s) is/are “recruiting” new volunteers for this “PRIVATE CLUB”? An alarming fact: In 2012, this applicant proposed 24 ORT presentations. Then in 2013, they had decreased by half to just twelve (12). In 2014, it had been cut again to a mere six (6). For 2015 through PRESENT DAY, We HAVE NOT seen ANY ORT presentations listed yet they are asking for MUCH MORE MONEY for less deliverables. This is not a sound business practice and proper use of funds. Truly, this looks a lot like more money for less work to US, the tax payers! Material and Supplies: In the categories of Brochures and Signs, they seem redundant. There are printing costs associated with each category and it should be a bundled request not separated. They are asking for more money than is actually needed. This year, total is back up to $26,800 (and HIDDEN within the RESTORATION GRANT PLUS another $20,000 within the Ed & Safety Grant), up from $25,000 last year, $22,000 two years ago, down from $25,000 three years ago and $20,000 the year before that. In 2012, they were granted $8,000 minus the match which seemed to do just fine. They are MORE THAN TRIPLING the costs of 2012 EVERY YEAR and have done this the last four-plus years… this seems VERY SUSPICIOUS !! Especially in today’s world of technology, they can put these materials on line and people can chose to print for themselves. SIGNS TO THE TUNE OF $5000… Good grief !!! Their request states the following: “Funding for sign development and printing cost associated with updating stationary kiosk along the trail and at staging areas with maps, well-defined rules and regulations and area specific information and replacing designated vehicle route signs (DVR's) as needed. AGAIN, they are asking for money for maps which was also requested in “Brochures” in the line item above within their grant request… NO MORE !!! Equipment Use Expenses: Other – Mileage Reimbursement – Yhe amount being requested can be reduced to approximately $1,000…YEARS PAST, they received the ASTRONOMICAL AMOUNT OF 18,000 miles a year to tune of $9,620 for a PERSONAL “FUN RIDE” VEHICLE (claimed $9,572 two years ago though it is down from $10,350 three years ago). THE EDUCATION OUTREACH COORDINATOR resides a mere 8-12 miles away from either the Discovery Center in Fawnskin or the North Shore Work Center in Lake Arrowhead. So, how in the hell do they justify / claim / request $2,000 for a LIKELY FALSIFIED3,500 miles a year? AUDIT !!! AUDIT !!! AUDIT !!! AND GET THIS !!! NOW, they have the nerve to request ANOTHER Position within the RESTORATION GRANT – TWO (COUNT 'EM) TWO RESTORATION SITE MONITORS !!! YEARS PAST, They requested OUR funds to tune of $59,467 per year (two years’ worth of salary being $118,934 within a ONE YEAR GRANT) !!! NOW they want a WHOPPING $385,757 !?!?!? WHEN WILL THIS MADNESS BE PUT TO AN END ?!?! AS FOR MILEAGE, they should use a monthly stipend of $100 per month for travel as this would require the employee to keep track of his/her mileage and receipts for gas. (The volunteers do not receive reimbursement or a stipend for their gas/mileage). Also, the Program Director and other SCMF staff have access to Forest Service vehicles to travel from the office which would greatly reduce the amount they are requesting. Equipment Purchase - Other: In 2013, the SCMF asked for $18,000 to fund a Mobile Education Kiosk – that was $18,000 for a branding message. What have we received for this – a branding message and not much more than that! I have only ever seen this vehicle at ONE (1) trade show, the Sand Sports Super Show and NOT ANY OTHERS. This IS nothing more than another “recruitment tool” and a waste of tax payer’s money. Other – Trade Show Fees – OH MY GOSH !!! SEVENTY-FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS !! WHAT IS GOING ON HERE ?!?! Years past, they had claimed that funds ($2,400 they were requesting) goes toward exhibitor fees for the Off-Road Expo in Pomona, CA & the Intl Motorcycle Show in Long Beach, CA. THEIR CLAIM: “Costs have increased this year to cover extra space for our large mobile education exhibit created with OHMVR funds two years ago and to reflect significant increases in price structure for all shows and these groups no longer providing nonprofit free or discounted rates. THIS IS SIMPLY NOT TRUE AS GROUPS SUCH AS CORVA & BIG BEAR TRAIL RIDERS (Both mentioned ARE 501.c3 ‘Non-Profit Organizations) HAVE ALWAYS BEEN “COMP’D” A SPACE AT THE VERY SAME SHOWS THIS GROUP IS REQUESTING OUR TAX DOLLARS FOR !!! SCMF Leadership claims they simply do not have the time nor the resources to facilitate working with promotors to receive a “Comp’d” (FREE) space. WITH THE THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN SALARIES THEY REQUEST (VIA OUR TAX DOLLARS), THEY MOST CERTAINLY DO HAVE BOTH THE TIME AND RESOURCES… WE ARE PAYING FOR IT … ENOUGH !!! We feel that these trade shows and expos are still one of the best ways to educate thousands of OHV enthusiasts on responsible recreation on public lands“ THEY USE THESE TRADE SHOWS TO “RECRUIT” NEW VOLUNTEERS AND USE OUR TAX DOLLARS BY WAY OF ‘So-Called’ PROMOTOR-INSISTED SHOW FEES TO DO THIS? AS I UNDERSTAND IT… LEGALLY SPEAKING… THIS IS AGAINST THE RULES AS STATED IN REGULATIONS SET FORTH BY THE GRANT PROGRAM PROCESS & ACCOMPANYING STATUTES PERTAINING TO IMPLEMENTATION !! SCMF further claims this as an increase to cover space for their large mobile education exhibit created with OHMVR funds three years ago. This group also claims they were unable to bring it to these events due to lack of funding years past. I CAN’T EMPHASZE THIS ENOUGH !!! At the Off Road Expo, the last four-plus years and more, they were openly & actively “RECRUITING” new volunteers from the attending public. They continue to do this at ALL shows they attend. AGAIN, AGAIN, I ASK… Why are public funds being utilized by a “private club” for the purpose of recruitment? WOW, THE GREED IS ABSOLUTELY UNREAL !!! GET THIS (BETTER SIT DOWN)!!: $5000 requested for a Volunteer Tracking Database - WHAT THE HAY-YELL ?!?! Notes : SCMF is planning to contract our for a volunteer database tracking system that will streamline all of our volunteer tracking in order to provide real time results to help us plan for where education is needed most on the forest and respond immediately". WELL NOW, what is the Volunteer Coordinator doing with their time if not COORDINATING VOLUNTEERS ??? Are they investing in ROBOTICS, a humanoid of some sort !?!? NO, NO... A THOUSAND TIMES NOOO !!! ONCE AGAIN, for an education and safety grant there is not much being asked for on either point; education or safety. The restoration grant is OUT OF CONTROL and needs to be scaled back by 60+ percent (at least) TOO MUCH GREED, FAR TOO MUCH REQUESTED LEAVING EVERY OTHER APPLICANT LACKING GREATLY !! As for Education and Safety, this is absolutely a fluff piece grant and the money should be used to further educate the public on safety. Time to spead the wealth, so to speak, and give other MORE WORTHY applicants a helping hand… NOT SCMF !! Danny Simmerman Dan Simmerman - 5/6/2019


Directly below, you will find my questions & concerns for information provided on the evaluation criteria form: # Project Type Project Title Grant Request Match Total Project Cost 2013-14 G13-04-02-R01 Restoration (Baldy Mesa) 1,105,422 388,611 1,494,033 2014-15 G14-04-02-R01 Restoration (NO Projects) 664,152 694,425 1,358,577 2015-16 Not applied for Previous ‘3’ uncompleted 0 0 0 2016-17 G16-04-02-R01 Restoration (Rattlesnake, Baldy Mesa – East, Bee Canyon & Cleghorn Ridge) 985,704 517,620 1,503,624 2017-18 G17-04-02-R01 Restoration (Holcomb Valley II) ???,??? ???,??? 853,087 THIS YEAR, THE GREEDY "SO CAL MO FOES" ARE ATTEMPTING TO EXTORT $1,213,456 OF OUR GREEN STICKER FUNDS TO FINANCE THEIR CORRUPTION! 2013-14 G13-04-02-S01 Education & Safety 96,281 304,907 401,188 2014-15 G14-04-02-S01 Education & Safety 85,514 275,230 360,744 2015-16 G15-04-02-S01 Education & Safety 105,461 349,310 454,771 2016-17 G16-04-02-R01 Education & Safety 107,648 371,170 478,818 2013-14 G17-04-02-S01 Education & Safety ??,??? ??,??? 72,405 2013-14 TOTAL for BOTH Rest + Ed & Sfty 1,201,703 693,518 1,895,221 2014-15 TOTAL for BOTH Rest + Ed & Sfty 749,666 969,655 1,719,321 2015-16 TOTAL for ALL Education & Safety 105,461 349,310 454,771 2016-17 TOTAL for ALL Rest + Ed & Sfty 1,093,352 888,790 1,982,442 2017-18 TOTAL for BOTH Rest + Ed & Sfty ?,???,??? ???,??? 925,492 (From 2014-15 application) 5. For Applicant’s OHV grant Projects which reached the end of the Project performance period within the last two years, the percentage of all Projects closed out in accordance with Program regulations: Restoarion (their mis-spelling): G08-04-02-R01; Grant Period 7/1/09 - 6/30/12 & G09-04-02-R01; Grant Period 8/11/10 - 8/10/13 Safety & Ed: G10-04-02-S01; Grant Period: 7/13/11 - 7/12/12 & G11-04-02-S01; Grant Period 7/13/12 - 7/12/13 YET AGAIN - JUST AS EVERY YEAR PAST, I REITERATE MY POINT !!! It was filled in as 100% of deliverable accomplished yet I have personally been in these areas lately and have not seen ANYTHING resembling full completion of these projects. ONCE AGAIN, this was not addressed years prior and I expect it won’t be addressed this year either…WHY? ABUSE OF OUR OHV PROGRAM BY THIS PRIVATE ENTERPRISE WHO CONTINUES TO MASQUERADE AS AN OHV-FRIENDLY, NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION NEEDS TO BE PUT TO A STOP AND NOW, NOW, NOOOWWW !!! “SCMF staff hosted two publicly noticed meetings with the general public to review the grant process and discuss the proposed project. Meetings were held 1) February 5th, 2019; 6pm-8pm at the Forest Service Supervisors Office in San Bernardino and 2) February 6th, 2019; 7pm-9pm at Sizzler Restaurant in Corona, CA” These so-called “public meetings” were ONLY announced via their SBNFA-OHV “PRIVATE” bulletin board which is NOT made available to the general public. Only their members of this PRIVATE CLUB can access this site and has been this way since early 2011. Furthermore, the Sizzler Restaurant management STILL INSISTS that ALL attendees MUST purchase a meal when entering into the restaurant to attend this so-called ‘public meeting”. This MUST be changed to a more tolerable venue for MY green sticker funds to ever be considered to fund ANYTHING this group does. “ATV Safety Institute and/or Motorcycle Safety Foundation approved training courses are provided to the public”: This is NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC by any means and they should not be given a point. You have to a member of the volunteer program or a forest service employee. Three years ago, this group applied for a Restoration Grant (with no active restoration project mentioned anywhere). At that time, they claimed 100% of Projects closed out (10 points). Two years ago, they requested funds for a Program Assistant to the tune of $7,500 for 500 hours of work. AGAIN, Just two years ago, they asked for 2 positions to be funded at $55,,000+ each for THREE YEARS within a ONE YEAR GRANT totaling more than $165,000 !! ONCE AGAIN, An “OHV Patrol Volunteer Coordinator (applied for in the most covert, fiendishly stealthy and downright sneaky fashion) for TWO YEARS SALARY OF $94,890 ($47,445 per year) within a ONE CALENDAR YEAR PRESCRIBED RESTORATION GRANT !! I can possibly understand one (1) position which is applied for within the Education & Safety Grant but why another – ESPECIALLY with what was applied for two years ago and AGAIN LAST YEAR? By their own admission, the element of ‘recruiting…and monitoring “volunteers” is mentioned. This very element is supposed to be handled by the Volunteer Coordinator – a position they apply for grant funding for within their Safety & Education Grant to the tune of $54,600 this year (up from $51,480 last year, $50,086 two years agp, $49,610 three years ago & $48,000 the year prior to that). Three years ago, it was a “PART TIME” Program Assistant “Intern” for 15 hours a week to the tune of $12,000 a year PLUS… $10,350 in personal vehicle fuel expenses. Last year brought about the SAME position but only for $7,500 and calling the position a part time fulfillment in the request. IN THEIR OWN WORDS, “The Program Assistant is responsible for implementing program deliverables during the busy summer/fall season. SCMF will hire a full-time seasonal paid intern working directly with the Education Outreach Coordinator The “busy Summer/Fall Season” they claim? NOW, If the other two seasons are NOT BUSY, then why the need for a requested OHV Patrol Volunteer Coordinator within the Restoration Grant? Whoops, my fault, they call them RESTORATION SITE MONITORS and now want TWO of them to the CORRUPTABLY EGRECIOUS tune of $355,757 dollars all the while claiming TWO of these so-called 'monitors will collectively put forst 12,480 hours of WORK. How is this even possible without blatant violations of Calif Labor Laws??? FIRST RULE OF GOVERNMENT SPENDING, WHY BUY ONE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE TWO FOR TWICE THE PRICE?! WELL, I sense SCMF will be licking their lips and rub their hands together contemplating the awarding of MORE $$$ from OUR TAX DOLLARS !!! THEIR GREED FOR GREEN BACKS KNOW NO BOUNDS !!! Could this turn out to be “double dipping”? LIKELY a contingency plan should one of the other multitude of positions applied for are not funded!! If so, it should (NOOO - MUST, MUST, MUST) be disallowed. They brag so heavily about the work of the OHV Volunteers AND of the Adopt-A-Trail Program so why not utilize them? Maybe it’s about money once again. Bottom line, it appears they are spending too much money on employees $161,803 for ONE Greenhouse and Seed Technician who will allegedly put in 6,240 hours of work A YEAR??? Calif Labor Laws prohibit such a prolific amount of hours worked by one 'singular' person. After all, they are asking for POSITION, singular and not plural !! Greenhouse technician will work in tandem (why, are they not qualified enough to work without supervision?) SBNF personnel to keep seeds and plants disease free and ready to plant. This position will also lead volunteer groups and UCC crew in seed collection, storage, cleaning, andseeding and planting of restoration sites. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!! STOP THIS RAMPANT GREED EXERTED UPON OUR GREEN STICKER FUNDS !!! HERE IS YET ANOTHER GEM !!! Staff - Urban Conservation Corp Crew (10 persons at UNBELIEVABLE costs of $172,752 @ $36.00 / hour) YIKES YIKES YIKES I SAY !!! "SCMF's own Urban Conservation Corps (UCC) will be utilized to perform large scale projects such as fence installation, moving logs and natural barriers, and planting." COME ON, NOW !!! What about these AMAZING VOLUNTEERS they keep touting??? MONEY, MONEY, MONEY... It doesn't grow on trees (or DOES IT) ?? HERE'S ANOTHER ONE - THE HITS JUST KEEP ON COMING!!! Restoration Biologist (Get the solid rocket boosters out - we're heading for LOW EARTH ORBIT this time). WOW, a whopping 4,160 hours @ 34/hr to a mind-numbing $141,606 !!! This so-called "Biologist" is allegedly responsible for "assessing new restoration sites, recommending restoration plans for the sites, purchasing necessary supplies and coordinating with SBNF specialists to implement site plans. This biologist will then work with staff, crew". REALLY?!?!?! So this person is going to put in over 80 hours a WEEK doing their work SOLELY in regards to direct correlation with OHV activity! NOT LIKELY AND NOT AT ALL POSSIBLE !!!! SOMEONE SLAP SOME SENSE INTO THESE GREEDY GEESE (HONK, HONK, OUTTA DA WAY... GOTTA GET THAT GREEN STICKER MOH-NAY !!!) AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST, you will see this again in their Ed & Safety grant: $50 THOUSAND DOLLARS for a VOLUNTEER TRACKING SYSTEM !!! WHAT THE HELL DOES THE VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR (AKA: ED Outreach Coord) DO !!?? "Volunteer tracking platform will be custom design and implementation for $40K and an additional $5K per year for year 2 and 3 for maintenance and support. This system will track volunteer time spent in the field and give us live feed back on the conditions of sites, site needs, and provide historical data of the sites. It will allow for more staff time in the field by allowing real time reporting (and less office time for tracking and reporting). A ROBOT of some sort in direct communication with an AUTOMATED DRONE ??? FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ??? I SAY AGAIN - What the Hay-Yell !!! What is the Volunteer Coordinator doing with their time if not COORDINATING VOLUNTEERS ??? NOW they are in need of a TRACKING SYSTEM ?? NOOO !!! Safety and Education Grant - Not in support of this Grant (DOUBLE DIPPING)!! Based on only 1.5 million dollars available for the entire state (up from 1.3 a scant two years ago), ONCE AGAIN, THIS Grant applicant is asking for just under 10% of the available funds. In years past, they sneakily hid the application of funding an OHV Patrol Volunteer Coordinator within the Restoration Grant (for Two Years SALARY, no less!). The available funds need to be shared more evenly throughout all the Grant applicants. Below are my recommendations for this Grant applicant. Staff: OHV Program Coordinator position should be for a total of 30 hours per week – NO MORE THAN THAT !! Why would WE, the tax payers, allow for the funding of well over $100 thousand dollars (up from $98,925 years past) for TWO of the EXACT SAME POSITIONS PER YEAR ( WAY up from $50,086 two years ago, from $49,610 three years ago and from $48,000 the year prior to that) for position(s) whose main objective(s) is/are “recruiting” new volunteers for this “PRIVATE CLUB”? An alarming fact: In 2012, this applicant proposed 24 ORT presentations. Then in 2013, they had decreased by half to just twelve (12). In 2014, it had been cut again to a mere six (6). For 2015 through PRESENT DAY, We HAVE NOT seen ANY ORT presentations listed yet they are asking for MUCH MORE MONEY for less deliverables. This is not a sound business practice and proper use of funds. Truly, this looks a lot like more money for less work to US, the tax payers! Material and Supplies: In the categories of Brochures and Signs, they seem redundant. There are printing costs associated with each category and it should be a bundled request not separated. They are asking for more money than is actually needed. This year, total is back up to $26,800 (and HIDDEN within the RESTORATION GRANT PLUS another $20,000 within the Ed & Safety Grant), up from $25,000 last year, $22,000 two years ago, down from $25,000 three years ago and $20,000 the year before that. In 2012, they were granted $8,000 minus the match which seemed to do just fine. They are MORE THAN TRIPLING the costs of 2012 EVERY YEAR and have done this the last four-plus years… this seems VERY SUSPICIOUS !! Especially in today’s world of technology, they can put these materials on line and people can chose to print for themselves. SIGNS TO THE TUNE OF $5000… Good grief !!! Their request states the following: “Funding for sign development and printing cost associated with updating stationary kiosk along the trail and at staging areas with maps, well-defined rules and regulations and area specific information and replacing designated vehicle route signs (DVR's) as needed. AGAIN, they are asking for money for maps which was also requested in “Brochures” in the line item above within their grant request… NO MORE !!! Equipment Use Expenses: Other – Mileage Reimbursement – Yhe amount being requested can be reduced to approximately $1,000…YEARS PAST, they received the ASTRONOMICAL AMOUNT OF 18,000 miles a year to tune of $9,620 for a PERSONAL “FUN RIDE” VEHICLE (claimed $9,572 two years ago though it is down from $10,350 three years ago). THE EDUCATION OUTREACH COORDINATOR resides a mere 8-12 miles away from either the Discovery Center in Fawnskin or the North Shore Work Center in Lake Arrowhead. So, how in the hell do they justify / claim / request $2,000 for a LIKELY FALSIFIED3,500 miles a year? AUDIT !!! AUDIT !!! AUDIT !!! AND GET THIS !!! NOW, they have the nerve to request ANOTHER Position within the RESTORATION GRANT – TWO (COUNT 'EM) TWO RESTORATION SITE MONITORS !!! YEARS PAST, They requested OUR funds to tune of $59,467 per year (two years’ worth of salary being $118,934 within a ONE YEAR GRANT) !!! NOW they want a WHOPPING $385,757 !?!?!? WHEN WILL THIS MADNESS BE PUT TO AN END ?!?! AS FOR MILEAGE, they should use a monthly stipend of $100 per month for travel as this would require the employee to keep track of his/her mileage and receipts for gas. (The volunteers do not receive reimbursement or a stipend for their gas/mileage). Also, the Program Director and other SCMF staff have access to Forest Service vehicles to travel from the office which would greatly reduce the amount they are requesting. Equipment Purchase - Other: In 2013, the SCMF asked for $18,000 to fund a Mobile Education Kiosk – that was $18,000 for a branding message. What have we received for this – a branding message and not much more than that! I have only ever seen this vehicle at ONE (1) trade show, the Sand Sports Super Show and NOT ANY OTHERS. This IS nothing more than another “recruitment tool” and a waste of tax payer’s money. Other – Trade Show Fees – OH MY GOSH !!! SEVENTY-FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS !! WHAT IS GOING ON HERE ?!?! Years past, they had claimed that funds ($2,400 they were requesting) goes toward exhibitor fees for the Off-Road Expo in Pomona, CA & the Intl Motorcycle Show in Long Beach, CA. THEIR CLAIM: “Costs have increased this year to cover extra space for our large mobile education exhibit created with OHMVR funds two years ago and to reflect significant increases in price structure for all shows and these groups no longer providing nonprofit free or discounted rates. THIS IS SIMPLY NOT TRUE AS GROUPS SUCH AS CORVA & BIG BEAR TRAIL RIDERS (Both mentioned ARE 501.c3 ‘Non-Profit Organizations) HAVE ALWAYS BEEN “COMP’D” A SPACE AT THE VERY SAME SHOWS THIS GROUP IS REQUESTING OUR TAX DOLLARS FOR !!! SCMF Leadership claims they simply do not have the time nor the resources to facilitate working with promotors to receive a “Comp’d” (FREE) space. WITH THE THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN SALARIES THEY REQUEST (VIA OUR TAX DOLLARS), THEY MOST CERTAINLY DO HAVE BOTH THE TIME AND RESOURCES… WE ARE PAYING FOR IT … ENOUGH !!! We feel that these trade shows and expos are still one of the best ways to educate thousands of OHV enthusiasts on responsible recreation on public lands“ THEY USE THESE TRADE SHOWS TO “RECRUIT” NEW VOLUNTEERS AND USE OUR TAX DOLLARS BY WAY OF ‘So-Called’ PROMOTOR-INSISTED SHOW FEES TO DO THIS? AS I UNDERSTAND IT… LEGALLY SPEAKING… THIS IS AGAINST THE RULES AS STATED IN REGULATIONS SET FORTH BY THE GRANT PROGRAM PROCESS & ACCOMPANYING STATUTES PERTAINING TO IMPLEMENTATION !! SCMF further claims this as an increase to cover space for their large mobile education exhibit created with OHMVR funds three years ago. This group also claims they were unable to bring it to these events due to lack of funding years past. I CAN’T EMPHASZE THIS ENOUGH !!! At the Off Road Expo, the last four-plus years and more, they were openly & actively “RECRUITING” new volunteers from the attending public. They continue to do this at ALL shows they attend. AGAIN, AGAIN, I ASK… Why are public funds being utilized by a “private club” for the purpose of recruitment? WOW, THE GREED IS ABSOLUTELY UNREAL !!! GET THIS (BETTER SIT DOWN)!!: $5000 requested for a Volunteer Tracking Database - WHAT THE HAY-YELL ?!?! Notes : SCMF is planning to contract our for a volunteer database tracking system that will streamline all of our volunteer tracking in order to provide real time results to help us plan for where education is needed most on the forest and respond immediately". WELL NOW, what is the Volunteer Coordinator doing with their time if not COORDINATING VOLUNTEERS ??? Are they investing in ROBOTICS, a humanoid of some sort !?!? NO, NO... A THOUSAND TIMES NOOO !!! ONCE AGAIN, for an education and safety grant there is not much being asked for on either point; education or safety. The restoration grant is OUT OF CONTROL and needs to be scaled back by 60+ percent (at least) TOO MUCH GREED, FAR TOO MUCH REQUESTED LEAVING EVERY OTHER APPLICANT LACKING GREATLY !! As for Education and Safety, this is absolutely a fluff piece grant and the money should be used to further educate the public on safety. Time to spead the wealth, so to speak, and give other MORE WORTHY applicants a helping hand… NOT SCMF !! Danny Simmerman Dan Simmerman - 5/6/2019


Directly below, you will find my questions & concerns for information provided on the evaluation criteria form: # Project Type Project Title Grant Request Match Total Project Cost 2013-14 G13-04-02-R01 Restoration (Baldy Mesa) 1,105,422 388,611 1,494,033 2014-15 G14-04-02-R01 Restoration (NO Projects) 664,152 694,425 1,358,577 2015-16 Not applied for Previous ‘3’ uncompleted 0 0 0 2016-17 G16-04-02-R01 Restoration (Rattlesnake, Baldy Mesa – East, Bee Canyon & Cleghorn Ridge) 985,704 517,620 1,503,624 2017-18 G17-04-02-R01 Restoration (Holcomb Valley II) ???,??? ???,??? 853,087 THIS YEAR, THE GREEDY "SO CAL MO FOES" ARE ATTEMPTING TO EXTORT $1,213,456 OF OUR GREEN STICKER FUNDS TO FINANCE THEIR CORRUPTION! 2013-14 G13-04-02-S01 Education & Safety 96,281 304,907 401,188 2014-15 G14-04-02-S01 Education & Safety 85,514 275,230 360,744 2015-16 G15-04-02-S01 Education & Safety 105,461 349,310 454,771 2016-17 G16-04-02-R01 Education & Safety 107,648 371,170 478,818 2013-14 G17-04-02-S01 Education & Safety ??,??? ??,??? 72,405 2013-14 TOTAL for BOTH Rest + Ed & Sfty 1,201,703 693,518 1,895,221 2014-15 TOTAL for BOTH Rest + Ed & Sfty 749,666 969,655 1,719,321 2015-16 TOTAL for ALL Education & Safety 105,461 349,310 454,771 2016-17 TOTAL for ALL Rest + Ed & Sfty 1,093,352 888,790 1,982,442 2017-18 TOTAL for BOTH Rest + Ed & Sfty ?,???,??? ???,??? 925,492 (From 2014-15 application) 5. For Applicant’s OHV grant Projects which reached the end of the Project performance period within the last two years, the percentage of all Projects closed out in accordance with Program regulations: Restoarion (their mis-spelling): G08-04-02-R01; Grant Period 7/1/09 - 6/30/12 & G09-04-02-R01; Grant Period 8/11/10 - 8/10/13 Safety & Ed: G10-04-02-S01; Grant Period: 7/13/11 - 7/12/12 & G11-04-02-S01; Grant Period 7/13/12 - 7/12/13 YET AGAIN - JUST AS EVERY YEAR PAST, I REITERATE MY POINT !!! It was filled in as 100% of deliverable accomplished yet I have personally been in these areas lately and have not seen ANYTHING resembling full completion of these projects. ONCE AGAIN, this was not addressed years prior and I expect it won’t be addressed this year either…WHY? ABUSE OF OUR OHV PROGRAM BY THIS PRIVATE ENTERPRISE WHO CONTINUES TO MASQUERADE AS AN OHV-FRIENDLY, NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION NEEDS TO BE PUT TO A STOP AND NOW, NOW, NOOOWWW !!! “SCMF staff hosted two publicly noticed meetings with the general public to review the grant process and discuss the proposed project. Meetings were held 1) February 5th, 2019; 6pm-8pm at the Forest Service Supervisors Office in San Bernardino and 2) February 6th, 2019; 7pm-9pm at Sizzler Restaurant in Corona, CA” These so-called “public meetings” were ONLY announced via their SBNFA-OHV “PRIVATE” bulletin board which is NOT made available to the general public. Only their members of this PRIVATE CLUB can access this site and has been this way since early 2011. Furthermore, the Sizzler Restaurant management STILL INSISTS that ALL attendees MUST purchase a meal when entering into the restaurant to attend this so-called ‘public meeting”. This MUST be changed to a more tolerable venue for MY green sticker funds to ever be considered to fund ANYTHING this group does. “ATV Safety Institute and/or Motorcycle Safety Foundation approved training courses are provided to the public”: This is NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC by any means and they should not be given a point. You have to a member of the volunteer program or a forest service employee. Three years ago, this group applied for a Restoration Grant (with no active restoration project mentioned anywhere). At that time, they claimed 100% of Projects closed out (10 points). Two years ago, they requested funds for a Program Assistant to the tune of $7,500 for 500 hours of work. AGAIN, Just two years ago, they asked for 2 positions to be funded at $55,,000+ each for THREE YEARS within a ONE YEAR GRANT totaling more than $165,000 !! ONCE AGAIN, An “OHV Patrol Volunteer Coordinator (applied for in the most covert, fiendishly stealthy and downright sneaky fashion) for TWO YEARS SALARY OF $94,890 ($47,445 per year) within a ONE CALENDAR YEAR PRESCRIBED RESTORATION GRANT !! I can possibly understand one (1) position which is applied for within the Education & Safety Grant but why another – ESPECIALLY with what was applied for two years ago and AGAIN LAST YEAR? By their own admission, the element of ‘recruiting…and monitoring “volunteers” is mentioned. This very element is supposed to be handled by the Volunteer Coordinator – a position they apply for grant funding for within their Safety & Education Grant to the tune of $54,600 this year (up from $51,480 last year, $50,086 two years agp, $49,610 three years ago & $48,000 the year prior to that). Three years ago, it was a “PART TIME” Program Assistant “Intern” for 15 hours a week to the tune of $12,000 a year PLUS… $10,350 in personal vehicle fuel expenses. Last year brought about the SAME position but only for $7,500 and calling the position a part time fulfillment in the request. IN THEIR OWN WORDS, “The Program Assistant is responsible for implementing program deliverables during the busy summer/fall season. SCMF will hire a full-time seasonal paid intern working directly with the Education Outreach Coordinator The “busy Summer/Fall Season” they claim? NOW, If the other two seasons are NOT BUSY, then why the need for a requested OHV Patrol Volunteer Coordinator within the Restoration Grant? Whoops, my fault, they call them RESTORATION SITE MONITORS and now want TWO of them to the CORRUPTABLY EGRECIOUS tune of $355,757 dollars all the while claiming TWO of these so-called 'monitors will collectively put forst 12,480 hours of WORK. How is this even possible without blatant violations of Calif Labor Laws??? FIRST RULE OF GOVERNMENT SPENDING, WHY BUY ONE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE TWO FOR TWICE THE PRICE?! WELL, I sense SCMF will be licking their lips and rub their hands together contemplating the awarding of MORE $$$ from OUR TAX DOLLARS !!! THEIR GREED FOR GREEN BACKS KNOW NO BOUNDS !!! Could this turn out to be “double dipping”? LIKELY a contingency plan should one of the other multitude of positions applied for are not funded!! If so, it should (NOOO - MUST, MUST, MUST) be disallowed. They brag so heavily about the work of the OHV Volunteers AND of the Adopt-A-Trail Program so why not utilize them? Maybe it’s about money once again. Bottom line, it appears they are spending too much money on employees $161,803 for ONE Greenhouse and Seed Technician who will allegedly put in 6,240 hours of work A YEAR??? Calif Labor Laws prohibit such a prolific amount of hours worked by one 'singular' person. After all, they are asking for POSITION, singular and not plural !! Greenhouse technician will work in tandem (why, are they not qualified enough to work without supervision?) SBNF personnel to keep seeds and plants disease free and ready to plant. This position will also lead volunteer groups and UCC crew in seed collection, storage, cleaning, andseeding and planting of restoration sites. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!! STOP THIS RAMPANT GREED EXERTED UPON OUR GREEN STICKER FUNDS !!! HERE IS YET ANOTHER GEM !!! Staff - Urban Conservation Corp Crew (10 persons at UNBELIEVABLE costs of $172,752 @ $36.00 / hour) YIKES YIKES YIKES I SAY !!! "SCMF's own Urban Conservation Corps (UCC) will be utilized to perform large scale projects such as fence installation, moving logs and natural barriers, and planting." COME ON, NOW !!! What about these AMAZING VOLUNTEERS they keep touting??? MONEY, MONEY, MONEY... It doesn't grow on trees (or DOES IT) ?? HERE'S ANOTHER ONE - THE HITS JUST KEEP ON COMING!!! Restoration Biologist (Get the solid rocket boosters out - we're heading for LOW EARTH ORBIT this time). WOW, a whopping 4,160 hours @ 34/hr to a mind-numbing $141,606 !!! This so-called "Biologist" is allegedly responsible for "assessing new restoration sites, recommending restoration plans for the sites, purchasing necessary supplies and coordinating with SBNF specialists to implement site plans. This biologist will then work with staff, crew". REALLY?!?!?! So this person is going to put in over 80 hours a WEEK doing their work SOLELY in regards to direct correlation with OHV activity! NOT LIKELY AND NOT AT ALL POSSIBLE !!!! SOMEONE SLAP SOME SENSE INTO THESE GREEDY GEESE (HONK, HONK, OUTTA DA WAY... GOTTA GET THAT GREEN STICKER MOH-NAY !!!) AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST, you will see this again in their Ed & Safety grant: $50 THOUSAND DOLLARS for a VOLUNTEER TRACKING SYSTEM !!! WHAT THE HELL DOES THE VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR (AKA: ED Outreach Coord) DO !!?? "Volunteer tracking platform will be custom design and implementation for $40K and an additional $5K per year for year 2 and 3 for maintenance and support. This system will track volunteer time spent in the field and give us live feed back on the conditions of sites, site needs, and provide historical data of the sites. It will allow for more staff time in the field by allowing real time reporting (and less office time for tracking and reporting). A ROBOT of some sort in direct communication with an AUTOMATED DRONE ??? FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ??? I SAY AGAIN - What the Hay-Yell !!! What is the Volunteer Coordinator doing with their time if not COORDINATING VOLUNTEERS ??? NOW they are in need of a TRACKING SYSTEM ?? NOOO !!! Safety and Education Grant - Not in support of this Grant (DOUBLE DIPPING)!! Based on only 1.5 million dollars available for the entire state (up from 1.3 a scant two years ago), ONCE AGAIN, THIS Grant applicant is asking for just under 10% of the available funds. In years past, they sneakily hid the application of funding an OHV Patrol Volunteer Coordinator within the Restoration Grant (for Two Years SALARY, no less!). The available funds need to be shared more evenly throughout all the Grant applicants. Below are my recommendations for this Grant applicant. Staff: OHV Program Coordinator position should be for a total of 30 hours per week – NO MORE THAN THAT !! Why would WE, the tax payers, allow for the funding of well over $100 thousand dollars (up from $98,925 years past) for TWO of the EXACT SAME POSITIONS PER YEAR ( WAY up from $50,086 two years ago, from $49,610 three years ago and from $48,000 the year prior to that) for position(s) whose main objective(s) is/are “recruiting” new volunteers for this “PRIVATE CLUB”? An alarming fact: In 2012, this applicant proposed 24 ORT presentations. Then in 2013, they had decreased by half to just twelve (12). In 2014, it had been cut again to a mere six (6). For 2015 through PRESENT DAY, We HAVE NOT seen ANY ORT presentations listed yet they are asking for MUCH MORE MONEY for less deliverables. This is not a sound business practice and proper use of funds. Truly, this looks a lot like more money for less work to US, the tax payers! Material and Supplies: In the categories of Brochures and Signs, they seem redundant. There are printing costs associated with each category and it should be a bundled request not separated. They are asking for more money than is actually needed. This year, total is back up to $26,800 (and HIDDEN within the RESTORATION GRANT PLUS another $20,000 within the Ed & Safety Grant), up from $25,000 last year, $22,000 two years ago, down from $25,000 three years ago and $20,000 the year before that. In 2012, they were granted $8,000 minus the match which seemed to do just fine. They are MORE THAN TRIPLING the costs of 2012 EVERY YEAR and have done this the last four-plus years… this seems VERY SUSPICIOUS !! Especially in today’s world of technology, they can put these materials on line and people can chose to print for themselves. SIGNS TO THE TUNE OF $5000… Good grief !!! Their request states the following: “Funding for sign development and printing cost associated with updating stationary kiosk along the trail and at staging areas with maps, well-defined rules and regulations and area specific information and replacing designated vehicle route signs (DVR's) as needed. AGAIN, they are asking for money for maps which was also requested in “Brochures” in the line item above within their grant request… NO MORE !!! Equipment Use Expenses: Other – Mileage Reimbursement – Yhe amount being requested can be reduced to approximately $1,000…YEARS PAST, they received the ASTRONOMICAL AMOUNT OF 18,000 miles a year to tune of $9,620 for a PERSONAL “FUN RIDE” VEHICLE (claimed $9,572 two years ago though it is down from $10,350 three years ago). THE EDUCATION OUTREACH COORDINATOR resides a mere 8-12 miles away from either the Discovery Center in Fawnskin or the North Shore Work Center in Lake Arrowhead. So, how in the hell do they justify / claim / request $2,000 for a LIKELY FALSIFIED3,500 miles a year? AUDIT !!! AUDIT !!! AUDIT !!! AND GET THIS !!! NOW, they have the nerve to request ANOTHER Position within the RESTORATION GRANT – TWO (COUNT 'EM) TWO RESTORATION SITE MONITORS !!! YEARS PAST, They requested OUR funds to tune of $59,467 per year (two years’ worth of salary being $118,934 within a ONE YEAR GRANT) !!! NOW they want a WHOPPING $385,757 !?!?!? WHEN WILL THIS MADNESS BE PUT TO AN END ?!?! AS FOR MILEAGE, they should use a monthly stipend of $100 per month for travel as this would require the employee to keep track of his/her mileage and receipts for gas. (The volunteers do not receive reimbursement or a stipend for their gas/mileage). Also, the Program Director and other SCMF staff have access to Forest Service vehicles to travel from the office which would greatly reduce the amount they are requesting. Equipment Purchase - Other: In 2013, the SCMF asked for $18,000 to fund a Mobile Education Kiosk – that was $18,000 for a branding message. What have we received for this – a branding message and not much more than that! I have only ever seen this vehicle at ONE (1) trade show, the Sand Sports Super Show and NOT ANY OTHERS. This IS nothing more than another “recruitment tool” and a waste of tax payer’s money. Other – Trade Show Fees – OH MY GOSH !!! SEVENTY-FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS !! WHAT IS GOING ON HERE ?!?! Years past, they had claimed that funds ($2,400 they were requesting) goes toward exhibitor fees for the Off-Road Expo in Pomona, CA & the Intl Motorcycle Show in Long Beach, CA. THEIR CLAIM: “Costs have increased this year to cover extra space for our large mobile education exhibit created with OHMVR funds two years ago and to reflect significant increases in price structure for all shows and these groups no longer providing nonprofit free or discounted rates. THIS IS SIMPLY NOT TRUE AS GROUPS SUCH AS CORVA & BIG BEAR TRAIL RIDERS (Both mentioned ARE 501.c3 ‘Non-Profit Organizations) HAVE ALWAYS BEEN “COMP’D” A SPACE AT THE VERY SAME SHOWS THIS GROUP IS REQUESTING OUR TAX DOLLARS FOR !!! SCMF Leadership claims they simply do not have the time nor the resources to facilitate working with promotors to receive a “Comp’d” (FREE) space. WITH THE THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN SALARIES THEY REQUEST (VIA OUR TAX DOLLARS), THEY MOST CERTAINLY DO HAVE BOTH THE TIME AND RESOURCES… WE ARE PAYING FOR IT … ENOUGH !!! We feel that these trade shows and expos are still one of the best ways to educate thousands of OHV enthusiasts on responsible recreation on public lands“ THEY USE THESE TRADE SHOWS TO “RECRUIT” NEW VOLUNTEERS AND USE OUR TAX DOLLARS BY WAY OF ‘So-Called’ PROMOTOR-INSISTED SHOW FEES TO DO THIS? AS I UNDERSTAND IT… LEGALLY SPEAKING… THIS IS AGAINST THE RULES AS STATED IN REGULATIONS SET FORTH BY THE GRANT PROGRAM PROCESS & ACCOMPANYING STATUTES PERTAINING TO IMPLEMENTATION !! SCMF further claims this as an increase to cover space for their large mobile education exhibit created with OHMVR funds three years ago. This group also claims they were unable to bring it to these events due to lack of funding years past. I CAN’T EMPHASZE THIS ENOUGH !!! At the Off Road Expo, the last four-plus years and more, they were openly & actively “RECRUITING” new volunteers from the attending public. They continue to do this at ALL shows they attend. AGAIN, AGAIN, I ASK… Why are public funds being utilized by a “private club” for the purpose of recruitment? WOW, THE GREED IS ABSOLUTELY UNREAL !!! GET THIS (BETTER SIT DOWN)!!: $5000 requested for a Volunteer Tracking Database - WHAT THE HAY-YELL ?!?! Notes : SCMF is planning to contract our for a volunteer database tracking system that will streamline all of our volunteer tracking in order to provide real time results to help us plan for where education is needed most on the forest and respond immediately". WELL NOW, what is the Volunteer Coordinator doing with their time if not COORDINATING VOLUNTEERS ??? Are they investing in ROBOTICS, a humanoid of some sort !?!? NO, NO... A THOUSAND TIMES NOOO !!! ONCE AGAIN, for an education and safety grant there is not much being asked for on either point; education or safety. The restoration grant is OUT OF CONTROL and needs to be scaled back by 60+ percent (at least) TOO MUCH GREED, FAR TOO MUCH REQUESTED LEAVING EVERY OTHER APPLICANT LACKING GREATLY !! As for Education and Safety, this is absolutely a fluff piece grant and the money should be used to further educate the public on safety. Time to spead the wealth, so to speak, and give other MORE WORTHY applicants a helping hand… NOT SCMF !! Danny Simmerman Dan Simmerman - 5/6/2019


The Stewards have a proven track record of doing a great job in the Forest and complying with past grants. The Forest has been impacted by by both fires and dead trees. We are reaching a high point in the cycle as more trees than ever are falling and blocking trails. Without this organization the forest would be closed due to lack of access. Access is not just for the recreating public but also includes use by the USFS to fight fires and for biologist to monitor wildlife and vegetation. Other access is need to support emergency services like search and rescue and other permitted activities. The Stewards provide a cost efficient alternative to other governmental agencies because volunteers do all the work. Grant money is used for equipment and supplies making each dollar go further. Our Forest needs to be open to the public and access via the trail system to allow anyone from poor to rich the same opportunities. The Forest helps our local economy and generated millions of dollars in economic activity. Please approve the grant application. marc sobel - 3/5/2019


The Stewards have a proven track record of doing a great job in the Forest and complying with past grants. The Forest has been impacted by by both fires and dead trees. We are reaching a high point in the cycle as more trees than ever are falling and blocking trails. Without this organization the forest would be closed due to lack of access. Access is not just for the recreating public but also includes use by the USFS to fight fires and for biologist to monitor wildlife and vegetation. Other access is need to support emergency services like search and rescue and other permitted activities. The Stewards provide a cost efficient alternative to other governmental agencies because volunteers do all the work. Grant money is used for equipment and supplies making each dollar go further. Our Forest needs to be open to the public and access via the trail system to allow anyone from poor to rich the same opportunities. The Forest helps our local economy and generated millions of dollars in economic activity. Please approve the grant application. marc sobel - 3/5/2019


The Stewards have a proven track record of doing a great job in the Forest and complying with past grants. The Forest has been impacted by by both fires and dead trees. We are reaching a high point in the cycle as more trees than ever are falling and blocking trails. Without this organization the forest would be closed due to lack of access. Access is not just for the recreating public but also includes use by the USFS to fight fires and for biologist to monitor wildlife and vegetation. Other access is need to support emergency services like search and rescue and other permitted activities. The Stewards provide a cost efficient alternative to other governmental agencies because volunteers do all the work. Grant money is used for equipment and supplies making each dollar go further. Our Forest needs to be open to the public and access via the trail system to allow anyone from poor to rich the same opportunities. The Forest helps our local economy and generated millions of dollars in economic activity. Please approve the grant application. marc sobel - 3/5/2019


The Stewards have a proven track record of doing a great job in the Forest and complying with past grants. The Forest has been impacted by by both fires and dead trees. We are reaching a high point in the cycle as more trees than ever are falling and blocking trails. Without this organization the forest would be closed due to lack of access. Access is not just for the recreating public but also includes use by the USFS to fight fires and for biologist to monitor wildlife and vegetation. Other access is need to support emergency services like search and rescue and other permitted activities. The Stewards provide a cost efficient alternative to other governmental agencies because volunteers do all the work. Grant money is used for equipment and supplies making each dollar go further. Our Forest needs to be open to the public and access via the trail system to allow anyone from poor to rich the same opportunities. The Forest helps our local economy and generated millions of dollars in economic activity. Please approve the grant application. marc sobel - 3/5/2019


The Stewards have a proven track record of doing a great job in the Forest and complying with past grants. The Forest has been impacted by by both fires and dead trees. We are reaching a high point in the cycle as more trees than ever are falling and blocking trails. Without this organization the forest would be closed due to lack of access. Access is not just for the recreating public but also includes use by the USFS to fight fires and for biologist to monitor wildlife and vegetation. Other access is need to support emergency services like search and rescue and other permitted activities. The Stewards provide a cost efficient alternative to other governmental agencies because volunteers do all the work. Grant money is used for equipment and supplies making each dollar go further. Our Forest needs to be open to the public and access via the trail system to allow anyone from poor to rich the same opportunities. The Forest helps our local economy and generated millions of dollars in economic activity. Please approve the grant application. marc sobel - 3/5/2019


The Stewards have a proven track record of doing a great job in the Forest and complying with past grants. The Forest has been impacted by by both fires and dead trees. We are reaching a high point in the cycle as more trees than ever are falling and blocking trails. Without this organization the forest would be closed due to lack of access. Access is not just for the recreating public but also includes use by the USFS to fight fires and for biologist to monitor wildlife and vegetation. Other access is need to support emergency services like search and rescue and other permitted activities. The Stewards provide a cost efficient alternative to other governmental agencies because volunteers do all the work. Grant money is used for equipment and supplies making each dollar go further. Our Forest needs to be open to the public and access via the trail system to allow anyone from poor to rich the same opportunities. The Forest helps our local economy and generated millions of dollars in economic activity. Please approve the grant application.marc sobel - 3/5/2019


The Stewards have a proven track record of doing a great job in the Forest and complying with past grants. The Forest has been impacted by by both fires and dead trees. We are reaching a high point in the cycle as more trees than ever are falling and blocking trails. Without this organization the forest would be closed due to lack of access. Access is not just for the recreating public but also includes use by the USFS to fight fires and for biologist to monitor wildlife and vegetation. Other access is need to support emergency services like search and rescue and other permitted activities. The Stewards provide a cost efficient alternative to other governmental agencies because volunteers do all the work. Grant money is used for equipment and supplies making each dollar go further. Our Forest needs to be open to the public and access via the trail system to allow anyone from poor to rich the same opportunities. The Forest helps our local economy and generated millions of dollars in economic activity. Please approve the grant application. marc sobel - 3/5/2019


The Stewards of the Sierra National Forest Volunteers have a very strong presence working with the Sierra National Forest Staff in maintaining the trails. All the trails. In many instances, the volunteers do the majority of the work to ensure we can keep them open for the public and not closed due to not being properly maintained otherwise. The volunteers need materials, tools, supplies and PPE in order to accomplish this. This grant funding is absolutely needed to the Volunteers who are directly working on the Ground. The Volunteers make this grant happen. Volunteer Adopt-A-Trail clubs/groups need Chainsaws, Vehicle Use or Mileage reimbursement while on the project activities listed within this grant. Volunteers are absolutely vital. Thank you Stewards of the Sierra National Forest for all you guys do!! McGarity Mike - 3/11/2019


The Stewards of the Sierra National Forest Volunteers have a very strong presence working with the Sierra National Forest Staff in maintaining the trails. All the trails. In many instances, the volunteers do the majority of the work to ensure we can keep them open for the public and not closed due to not being properly maintained otherwise. The volunteers need materials, tools, supplies and PPE in order to accomplish this. This grant funding is absolutely needed to the Volunteers who are directly working on the Ground. The Volunteers make this grant happen. Volunteer Adopt-A-Trail clubs/groups need Chainsaws, Vehicle Use or Mileage reimbursement while on the project activities listed within this grant. Volunteers are absolutely vital in order for the SNF to fulfill the contents of deliverable's mentioned within. Thank you Stewards of the Sierra National Forest for all you guys do!! McGarity Mike - 3/11/2019


The Stewards of the Sierra National Forest Volunteers have a very strong presence working with the Sierra National Forest Staff in maintaining the trails. All the trails. In many instances, the volunteers do the majority of the work to ensure we can keep them open for the public and not closed due to not being properly maintained otherwise. The volunteers need materials, tools, supplies and PPE in order to accomplish this. This grant funding is absolutely needed to the Volunteers who are directly working on the Ground. The Volunteers make this grant happen. Volunteer Adopt-A-Trail clubs/groups need Chainsaws, Vehicle Use or Mileage reimbursement while on the project activities listed within this grant. Volunteers are absolutely vital in order for the SNF to fulfill the contents of deliverable's mentioned within. Thank you Stewards of the Sierra National Forest for all you guys do!! McGarity Mike - 3/11/2019


My experience with this group has been awe inspiring as the amount of work achieved and the dedication to keeping the roads and trails open for all users is just amazing,. This groups grant request should be approved. Anyone from any group should spend a day working with the Stewards and if they did i am sure many more comment letters of support would be written. Edward Mann - 3/21/2019


This group deserves to be funded so they can build a stronger volunteer base to accomplish the work the USFS is unable to do due to funding constraints, Edward Mann - 3/21/2019


Volunteer groups such as this have become the backbone for the USFS and should be funded. Edward Mann - 3/21/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Inyo NF Ground Operations for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair of the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 4/3/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Stewards of the Sierra National Forest for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair of the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR) Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 4/3/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Stanislaus NF Ground Operations for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair of the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR) Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 4/3/2019


I strongly support the great work the Stewards of the Sierra National Forest do. Brian Hansen - 4/10/2019


This grant is an excellent example of the user group stepping up and getting the job done. I really admire what this group has accomplish and their willingness to plow forward. They are very cost effective and efficient in their endeavors. As they pointed out many of the trails are in sad need of repairs. The hard winters take their toll on the trails and many have a severe wooping problem that ruins the enjoyment. Eastern Sierra 4x4 President Mike Johnston - 4/12/2019


On behalf of PeopleForBikes and the Bicycle Product Suppliers Association, we beleive that the Downieville and Quincy trails are very important to us. It is important to keep these trails open for the public to use. The trails provide positive economic impact in two struggling California counties, recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, and local employment. These are sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance and protect the watershed. Morgan Lommele - 4/19/2019


As an environmental engineering student, I understand that proper stewardship of our natural resources is a benefit to the State. I understand that proper trail maintenance will ensure minimal erosion and sediment transport that can detrimentally impact downstream water quality.The multi-use trail system that accommodates hikers, motorcyclists, and mountain bikers is one reminder to me that the tourist economy enables the well-being of areas such as Downieville. For one, it creates local employment and creates recreational opportunities that support local businesses. In sum, any funding that can support trail work in the subject region is a good thing for the state. Not only will it benefit our economy, but it will ensure a greater quality of life through recreation. Kahui Lim - 4/19/2019


I make multiple trips with friends out to the downieville area each year specifically to ride the mountain bike trails. It's an awesome and unique place in California, and I wholly support the SBTS efforts to maintain, improve, and expand the network of trails in the area. Alex Hillis - 4/19/2019


The Stewards are an incredible organization that does a tremendous amount of work. Of the many groups that do work on the trails i think they are the one that does the most. This grant for them is a must to keep doing the work needed to keep the trails safe for vehicles to be on. They remove many trees and install a huge amount of water bars to keep the trails from degrading. In the areas they do work they are a very much needed organization. Landon Gipe - 5/4/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Inyo NF Ground Operations for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair of the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR) Stewards of the Sierra National Forest Stanislaus NF Ground Operations Inyo NF Ground Operations http://olga.ohv.parks.ca.gov/egrams_ohmvr/user/ReviewProjects.aspx Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 5/6/2019


Hello Concerned, I support this grant request by Inyo NF Ground Operations for ground maintenance for clearing trails of downed trees and other debris and trimming encroaching brush. This also includes the repair of the trails by rebuilding water bars and building new water bars where needed etc. Respectfully Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Riders (MDR) Stewards of the Sierra National Forest Sierra NF Ground Operatipns http://olga.ohv.parks.ca.gov/egrams_ohmvr/user/ReviewProjects.aspx Michael Damaso, President Merced Dirt Ri - 5/6/2019


The proposed restoration work in this grant application by the Transition Habitat Conservancy will be a step in the right direction toward mitigation of the adverse consequences of extensive illegal off-road activity in the Fremont Peak and Black Mountain areas of the western Mojave. I own 53 acres near Fremont Peak, and I spend about 80 days per year in the area. Incursions by off-road vehicles have done considerable damage to this area. About half of the land in this area is private property. Public agencies have designated the area for off-road vehicle activity, but have not provided adequate resources to protect private property from the abuses of off-road vehicle riders, nor have adequate resources been provided to mitigate past damage. The Transition Habitat Conservancy has added many signs in an area north of Fremont Peak that indicate that the area is a limited use area and vehicles must stay on numbered, open routes. The conservancy has also done restoration work that I have observe in many places. Their restoration work often disguises unauthorized routes with plants so that riders cannot see the evidence of past riding in the area. That reduces riders following illegal paths formed by other riders. I would like to see the scale the work by the conservancy, including their provision of new signage, their restoration work, and contracting for patrols, increased significantly. I believe that the steps the the conservancy proposes in this grant application will help considerably with all three of these needs. I have personal views about what is taking place in the Fremont Peak area that I want to express. In the management of public lands, public agencies should consider all potential public users' desires for the area in the management plan. But when those lands are interspersed throughout private lands, the public agencies have an additional responsibility to see that private property owners are not abused by the uses specified for public lands. In my view, the current system is an abuse of the property rights of private land owners, because it encourages trespass on and degrading of the private property in the area. There is a very serious need for mitigation of this damage, so I hope that this proposal will be funded so that the ongoing damage to this area can be slowed. Steven Gjerstad - 3/15/2019


This request should be funded. The "Tread Lightly" program is instrumental to responsible OHV use. Their outreach and social media communication efforts are essential to educate OHV users and the general public about how and what is meant by responsible OHV use. They provide sensible and understandable guidelines which can (and are) support by organizations and individuals advocating responsible use and stewardship of our outdoor recreational resources. Their focus on young people will pay dividends to all of us in the future. John R Shepherd - 4/16/2019


Education should be a priority of the OHMVR funds. The Treadlightly message needs to be a continuous one and is an excellent tool to maintain sustainable OHV activities. We are very excited about the Education Poster Program and look for to the opportunity to utilize the posters. We have worked with the Treadlightly organization in the past and found it to be a rewarding experience. Adequate education will help prevent the need for increased law enforcement and resource restoration. Please fully fund this grant request. Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club President. mike johnston - 4/17/2019


Education should be a priority of the OHMVR funds. The Treadlightly message needs to be a continuous one and is an excellent tool to maintain sustainable OHV activities. We are very excited about the Education Poster Program and look for to the opportunity to utilize the posters. We have worked with the Treadlightly organization in the past and found it to be a rewarding experience. Adequate education will help prevent the need for increased law enforcement and resource restoration. Please fully fund this grant request. Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club President. mike johnston - 4/17/2019


 

 

DISTRICTS

I have been to Fischer Campground numerous times. I think this is an important project, as I use the Wildlife Area for recreational OHV use, however, I have concerns regarding removal of the vaulted bathroom. Will disturbing the surrounding soil cause additional contaminates to reach Antelope Creek? Michelle Nicol - 3/15/2019


I just want to show my support for the Fischer Campground Bathroom Replacement Project. My husband and I are avid Offroaders and we camp at Fischer Campground at least 3 times a year. While CDFW has improved the campground immensely, the last improvement that is needed is the horrible bathrooms. They are disgusting! The best time to enjoy the wildlife area is when CDFW opens the south sound of the property. The trails our there are amazing, no place in California can you see so much wildlife while offroading. Emmy Westlake - 3/15/2019


Finally someone is doing something about this bathroom! I belong to a 4x4 club. We use the Tehama Wildlife area for club runs, and I also visit the area on my own and with my wife. The TWA is the best area near here for off-roading. We enjoy camping, but my wife will only camp where there is a bathroom. The one at the Fischer Camp is in terrible condition, really it is unusable. Also it is an eyesore in an otherwise beautiful area. Since there is no bathroom in the area, we only use the TWA for day trips instead of overnight or weekends. I would really like to explore the area more and try the tougher jeep trails that are more remote, but this would require an overnight or weekend stay instead of just up for the day and back home. A functional bathroom would be a valuable addition and increase our ability to 4x4 in the entire area. Tim Lamkin - 3/18/2019


My family and I use the Tehama Wildlife Area for off highway vehicle purposes. We enjoy camping at the Fisher Campground and riding our quads around the wildlife area to fish, hunt and check out the wildflowers in the spring. The bathroom at the campground has been disgusting for years and we would camp more often if there were a usable bathroom. Vicky Dawley - 3/18/2019


I support this project because I like to go hiking, camping and take pictures with my huskies, but in order to do so; I would need off road access to get to the area. Destine Gunther - 3/19/2019


The Butte County Federal/State Land Use Coordinating Committee (LUCC) supports this grant application. The LUCC is a Board appointed (Brown Act) committee representing Butte County citizens’ interests in the areas of recreation, forest management, tourism/economic development and environment/watershed, working closely with the Plumas and Lassen National Forests and other public land managers. These comments were developed at a public meeting with input from the public. The LUCC supports this grant application for needed replacement of the toilet facility at the Tehama Wildlife Area (TWA) Fisher Campground. Butte County Coordinating Committee - 4/22/2019


Funding this project will facilitate access for many types of OHV use, and the opportunity for riders to experience so many aspects of the lands involved. Having well-maintained and challenging designated OHV trails protects the sensitive species in the Creeks and Rivers and soil. TCRCD and Cynthia Tarwater have shown their ground work to be excellent over the years, as evidenced by the long-term results that get tested by storms. Having good legal trails, well-marked, steers OHV riders to places where they can have fun, while protecting resources. Karen wilson - 4/29/2019


This project will be a benefit to riders and the public preserving the natural habitat and clearly providing areas for everyone to enjoy. Bea Hallenbeck - 5/4/2019