2024 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

BLM - Arcata Field Office

I request that you add more labor funding to increase patrols at Samoa Dunes OHV area. Victoria Callahan - 5/2/2024

BLM - Barstow Field Office

I ask that you increase your request for labor funds to help cover all eleven law enforcement positions mentioned in the project narrative. Thank you. Justin Melchor - 3/29/2024

BLM Barstow manages a large off-highway motor vehicle recreation area, known as the Western Mojave Route Network Project (WMRNP). Based on Friends of Jawbone maps (e.g., the Jawbone Canyon & BLM Ridgecrest Area map and the BLM Barstow, Big Bear, and Johnson Valley map) there are approximately 420 sections of private property that have at least one BLM-designated route; many sections of private property have more than one route. My comments focus on issues related to the use of private property for off-highway motor vehicle recreation. My first comment on the General Application Requirements document submitted by Barstow BLM is on point 7(b), "Prevention of OHV trespass." The application states that "The majority of OHV Opportunity area are patrolled at least 5 days per week." My own experience tells me that this is incorrect. I have probably spent more time in the area around Cuddeback Lake and Fremont Peak in the past 8 years than any other person. I saw SB County sheriff's deputies in the area in 2016 and again on March 30, 2018. I called the SB County sheriff's office regarding a break-in on my property and Deputy Keith came to my property on April 18, 2020 in response to my call. Those are the 3 times that I have seen deputies on or in the vicinity of my property in 8 years. I also encountered and spoke to BLM Ranger Melissa Brown on June 15, 2022 while she was patrolling along the boundary between the Ridgecrest and Barstow Field Office Districts on Butterfly Hill Road, about 4 miles from my property. I have never seen a BLM ranger from the Barstow Field Office in the vicinity of my property. Based on approximately 500 to 600 days in this area, 3 encounters with law enforcement seems inconsistent with the claim that "the majority of OHV Opportunity areas are patrolled at least 5 days per week." Although the proposal may not earn as many points if patrols have been inadequate in the past, that is contrary to the need. There is a significant unfulfilled need for enforcement in this area, and the fact that enforcement has been inadequate in the past should not prevent the deployment of resources to improve enforcement in the future. I still strongly support allocation of funds for patrols. My next comments are based on point 7(c), "Measures to prevent OHV trespass into neighboring properties and/or closed areas." The first comment for this section is based on the statement that "In some areas, there are boundary fences installed to delineate the OHV area and prevent unauthorized access." This may be true, but clearly there are not enough of these fences. I have made two written requests to the OHMVR Division for fences to protect riders in the immediate vicinity of my property and to protect me on my property. The California Department of Parks and Recreation has a mandatory duty, expressed in Public Resources Code §5075.3(i), which states in part that "[t]he department [of Parks and Recreation] shall erect fences along any trail when requested to do so by the owner of adjacent land." This should be done without delay because, as specified in California Government Code §815.6 "[w]here a public entity is under a mandatory duty imposed by an enactment that is designed to protect against the risk of a particular kind of injury, the public entity is liable for an injury of that kind proximately caused by its failure to discharge the duty unless the public entity establishes that it exercised reasonable diligence to discharge the duty." I do not see that the department has "exercised reasonable diligence to discharge the duty." Quite to the contrary, Department of Parks and Recreation Senior Counsel Kathryn Tobias, in personal communication to me responding to my request for fencing has stated to me that "I am not going to debate you on this subject. The Attorney General will handle any litigation for the Department of Parks and Recreation." This establishes a high burden for landowners. According to policy stated by DPR Senior Counsel Tobias, a landowner must successfully bring a lawsuit against the Department of Parks and Recreation in order to get the department to fulfill a duty mandated in statute (Cal. Gov. Code §5075.3(i)). This clearly contradicts the duty created by the statute: "[t]he department shall erect fences along any trail when requested to do so by the owner of adjacent land." My next comment, also in response to point 7(c), relates to the statement that "In order to prevent OHV trespass, free and publicly available brochures indicate that cross-country travel is not permitted in applicable areas." The wording on the brochures does not draw enough attention to this issue or emphasize the importance of compliance with the regulation (43 CFR 8341.1) or the statute (Cal. Penal Code 602(n)) adequately. BLM Barstow Field Manager Marc Stamer has suggested new signs at entrance areas, such as those at Fremont Peak Road and 395, and at Cuddeback Road and 395, to emphasize the points that (1) cross-country travel is not permitted in the Limited Use Areas, (2) the area is a checkerboard of private and public land, (3) many routes pass into and out of private property many times, and (4) riders have primary responsibility for their own safety when trespassing, as specified in Public Resources Code §5090.38. Field Manager Stamer suggested large format signs like the ones with the wording: "ATTENTION VEHICLES ON MARKED TRAILS ONLY LIMITED USE AREA". My suggested wording for the companion signs is: "Many routes traverse private property. Private property owners are not liable to trespassers. Cal. PRC 5090.38." This serves the interests of everyone involved. Riders need to know that they may encounter conditions that are unsuitable for off-highway vehicles when they trespass. Public entities that encourage the use of off-highway motor vehicles on private property do so at their own risk. For example, the BLM is not authorized by the Designation Criteria in 43 CFR 8342.1 to designate routes on private property, so the liability exposure is considerable. The OHMVR, like all state agencies, must follow the procedures in Article I, Section 19 of the California Constitution before it takes or damages private property for a public purpose. (This is true even if the OHMVR is not the lead agency, as stated in Arreola v. County of Monterey (2002) 99 Cal.App.4th 722: “A public entity is a proper defendant in an action for inverse condemnation if the entity substantially participated in the planning, approval, construction, or operation of a public project or improvement that proximately caused injury to private property. So long as the plaintiffs can show substantial participation, it is immaterial ‘which sovereign holds title or has the responsibility for operation of the project.’”) Not only have the BLM and the OHMVR not taken legal interest in the thousands of private properties designated for off-highway motor vehicle recreation in the WMRNP, neither agency can do so without the consent of the property owners, per Public Resources Code 5090.37. The fact that the entire program of off-highway motor vehicle recreation on private property lacks a sound legal basis creates serious liability exposure for the BLM and the OHMVR for accidents on private property. In these conditions, in which a federal agency and a state agency have created a dangerous condition through actions that have no legal justification, it would be helpful but not exculpatory for the agencies to provide clear warning of the danger associated with trespass on private property in the vicinity of off-highway motor vehicle routes that that have been designated by the agencies. Steven Gjerstad - 4/4/2024

I would like to comment on Barstow BLM grant applications on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle association. The ground operations application is good to keep OHV alive in these large areas. I am surprised there are no line items for signs, associated tools or maintenance for vehicles. LE Good but no safety gear, OHVs, vehicles ,repairs, maintenance etc? These grants can help with maintenance and repair of vehicles used in law enforcement. It may be that the staff putting the restoration grant together doesn't understand that restoration grants only require a 10% match (while the others require 25%) It is not too late to make adjustments. The applicant may not be aware that if a comment like this comes before the comment period ends, the applicant is allowed to adjust applications. Ed Stovin - 4/24/2024

BLM - Bishop Field Office

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. This proposal should be funded. The proper and efficient monitoring, maintenance, repair and of level 2 roads on the in the area is essential for better resource management and provides a rewarding OHV experience for our visitors. The Winter of 2023 did a huge amount of damage to our area. As an individually has driven these roads for over 30 years, I endorse the much-needed maintenance and repair work that will be done with this funding. Pat Woods - 3/30/2024

his request for funding should be approved. Bishop BLM area 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 beautiful and 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. Pat Woods - 3/30/2024

This project is very much needed for the Inyo National Forest off highway roads. Just like in Death Valley, the Inyo National Forest and the BLM roads in this area were greatly damaged by the storms during 2023 and are in much need of repairing. The Inyo National Forest gets an average of 2.4 million visitors a year, most of which come from the Southern California area, but we also get visitors from all over the United States using the off highway roads in Inyo and Mono counties. Many of these visitors drive on the off highway roads in the forest and a large number of drivers are inexperienced. We need to repair the damaged roads for their and everyones safety. I strongly urge you to grant the funds requested for this project. Tom Turner - 4/18/2024

Please support funding this Grant Proposal. As a Big Pine resident and an active member of the Eastern Sierra 4WD Club, it’s imperative that funding be allotted in order to repair, upgrade and maintain existing OHV roads and trails. Since covid there has been a fairly large increase in usage of our off road trail systems in the Owens Valley including Inyo National Forest and BLM lands. Additionally some of our recent weather patterns have negatively impacted access to these public lands with the Coyote Flats trail being one of the more significantly damaged roads. I urge you to fund this grant due to the much-needed restoration, maintenance and repair work that we can achieve with said funds. Richard Bellomy - 4/22/2024

I want to thank your field office for the continued maintenance of the OHV areas in your jurisdiction. I would like to add that the signage is very important to the OHV uses safety. With the increase of side by side type vehicles there can be times where there are SxS and dirt bikes are on the same trail. Probably the most dual usage is the Mammoth to June trail. I realize the extreme difficulty there must be keeping the signs up & visible with weather & vandalism. On the Mammoth to June trail there are several places where the trail crosses roads that are paved and/or well traveled. We could use more STOP or ROAD CROSSING signs please. These crossings can be very dangerous and are almost all blind crossings to travelers on the trail. Thank you folks for all your hard work. John Davis Acton & Mammoth Lakes, CA John S Davis - 4/30/2024

I am writing to voice my strong support for the BLM Ground Operations grant funding proposal. Over the past five years, our community has faced significant challenges, including severe storms, the impacts of COVID-19, and the proliferation of social media. These factors have collectively taken a toll on our roads and access points, making it increasingly difficult for residents and visitors alike to enjoy our public lands. As a resident of the area served by the Bishop Field Office, I have witnessed firsthand the strain placed on our road and access infrastructure. Unfortunately, the resources available to the Bishop Field Office are insufficient to adequately support the necessary repairs and maintenance efforts. Without grant funding, essential repairs cannot be completed, and our ability to maintain access to these valuable public lands will be severely compromised. It is imperative to recognize that our public lands are a shared resource, accessible to everyone in our community and beyond. I am optimistic that with the support of this grant funding proposal, we can address the pressing needs of our road and access infrastructure, ensuring that they remain viable for years to come. Access to outdoor recreation opportunities is vital for the health and well-being of our community, and I am hopeful that this grant will enable us to continue providing these opportunities to all. Thank you for considering the importance of this funding proposal and its potential impact on our ability to maintain access to our public lands. Scott Stoner - 5/1/2024

Dear Inyo National Forest Supervisor Yen & Bishop Field Office Field Manager Lisius, For your consideration are the public comments of the Mammoth Lakes Town Council regarding the initial Inyo National Forest & Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Bishop Field Office Off Highway Vehicle Grant proposals. Town Council unequivocally supports access to public lands for OHV users, but recommends the following actions be implemented through the state OHV grant program.

LAUREL LAKES ROAD REHABILITATION
Safety
• In its current condition and design, the road can be quite hazardous. Rains make the safety situation even worse. People have died on this road in the past and of course users travel at their own risk, like any road. But, due to the factors I mention below, this road is very highly sought after.
Resource Degradation
• Being that the road follows the fall line in many places, it washes out regularly with the summer rains. This can cause sedimentation of surrounding Laurel Creek. But due to the popularity and uniqueness of this route, folks seek to bypass washouts by creating new routes through the surrounding vegetation.
• A more sustainable and safe road design would allow both the Inyo and its partners to better manage Laurel Lakes, which currently received little to no management in terms of dispersed camping impacts (fires, human waste, etc) or impacts from activities such as fishing (monofilament fishing line) and general use (litter, etc).
Unique Resource
• To my knowledge, there is no other road on the Inyo that leads to a resource such as Laurel Lakes. A challenging, steep dirt road into the Sierra proper to a high-country lake beloved by campers and fisher-people alike, where dispersed camping is allowed. As such, this road is much sought after and is immediately adjacent to the Town of Mammoth Lakes, making it even more accessible than perhaps some of the more obscure areas of the forest. With that said, the road should maintain its character of a rough dirt road, meaning it should still be difficult and not passable by all vehicles.
Multi-Use Benefits
• Any improvements to Laurel Lakes Road would benefit multiple user groups. This differs from perhaps some other roads/road work that do not lead to destinations and are only used by OHV enthusiasts. Laurel lakes is enjoyed by campers, OHV users, fisher-people, hikers, leafpeepers, horseback riders, and wilderness users who use Laurel as a jumping off point into Convict Canyon.
OTHER COMMENTS FROM THE MAMMOTH TRAILS COMMITTEE
• Development of new USFS OHV Campgrounds to accommodate rising use, especially considering Upper & Lower Dead man Campgrounds are no longer opened by the Forest. These free campgrounds are an outstanding amenity, as many (if not most) of these campers would be dispersed camping without this option. Similarly, the BLM should develop OHV campgrounds in the Long Valley Area, in and around the hot springs and adjacent high use dirt roads. • Restoration of Existing dispersed camping sites in and around what the Inyo National Forest classifies as the Recreation Restriction Area Boundary. Wildfire is one of the greatest threats to the vitality of Eastern Sierra communities and mitigating those risks aligns with Forest Service and BLM national policies related to wildfire mitigation.
• Continued signing of illegal dispersed camping sites to prevent continued use.
• Expansion of motorized single-track system. Currently, the Mammoth Ranger District contains 12.2 miles of Motorized single-track. Similarly, increase the connectivity between the limited motorized single-track opportunities that do exist. E-Bikes are considered (at this time) motorized equipment and the proliferation of these modes of transportation on the landscape was not something that was envisioned when the Motorized Single-Track trail system was created. As such, Town Council specifically recommends the Inyo National Forest re-boot the Town of Mammoth Lakes Shady Rest- Inyo Craters proposal (SRIC) which seeks to address the dearth of opportunities in and around the Mammoth Ranger District.
• Monitor roads during the first winter snows and spring melt to effectively limit vehicles from accessing them to prevent resource damage:
• Lastly, the town council behooves the state OHV Commission to guide the Forests and Field Offices to use these grants to provide actual recreational opportunities for users. The Inyo has spent many consecutive years performing general restoration, using these grants to fund staff, general road maintenance, and enforcement. It has been decades since any new motorized singletrack was built on the Mammoth Ranger District. Meanwhile, the Town of Mammoth Lakes alone receives an estimated 2.8 million visitors annually, with 1.5 of those visitors in the summer months. Motorized recreation, like all forms of recreation, is on the rise and becoming a larger piece of the state's GDP. Town Council would like to see the creation of tangible recreation opportunities, including but not limited to, new single track to meet these demands. We appreciate your consideration and look forward to further engagement in this process.
Submitted on behalf of the Mammoth Lakes Town Council, Rob Patterson Town Manager Submitted on behalf of the Mammoth Lakes Town Council, Rob Patterson Town Manager - 5/3/2024

Dear Inyo National Forest Supervisor Yen & Bishop Field Office Field Manager Lisius, For your consideration are the public comments of the Mammoth Trails Committee (MTC) regarding the initial Inyo National Forest & Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Bishop Field Office Off Highway Vehicle Grant proposals. The MTC is a sub-committee of Mammoth Lakes Recreation which provides program and fiscal oversight for the Mammoth Lakes Trail System (MLTS). The MTC unequivocally supports access to public lands for OHV users, but recommends the following actions be implemented through the state OHV grant program.

LAUREL LAKES ROAD REHABILITATION
Safety
• In its current condition and design, the road can be quite hazardous. Rains make the safety situation even worse. People have died on this road in the past and of course users travel at their own risk, like any road. But, due to the factors I mention below, this road is very highly sought after.
Resource Degradation
• Being that the road follows the fall line in many places, it washes out regularly with the summer rains. This can cause sedimentation of surrounding Laurel Creek. But due to the popularity and uniqueness of this route, folks seek to bypass washouts by creating new routes through the surrounding vegetation.
• A more sustainable and safe road design would allow both the Inyo and its partners to better manage Laurel Lakes, which currently received little to no management in terms of dispersed camping impacts (fires, human waste, etc) or impacts from activities such as fishing (mono-filament fishing line) and general use (litter, etc).
Unique Resource
• To my knowledge, there is no other road on the Inyo that leads to a resource such as Laurel Lakes. A challenging, steep dirt road into the Sierra proper to a high-country lake beloved by campers and fisher-people alike, where dispersed camping is allowed. As such, this road is much sought after and is immediately adjacent to the Town of Mammoth Lakes, making it even more accessible than perhaps some of the more obscure areas of the forest. With that said, the road should maintain it's character of a rough dirt road, meaning it should still be difficult and not passable by all vehicles.
Multi-Use Benefits
• Any improvements to Laurel Lakes Road would benefit multiple user groups. This differs from perhaps some other roads/road work that do not lead to destinations and are only used by OHV enthusiasts. Laurel lakes is enjoyed by campers, OHV users, fisher-people, hikers, leaf-peepers, horseback riders, and wilderness users who use Laurel as a jumping off point into Convict Canyon.
OTHER COMMENTS FROM THE MAMMOTH TRAILS COMMITTEE
• Development of new USFS OHV Campgrounds to accommodate rising use, especially considering Upper & Lower Deadman Campgrounds are no longer opened by the Forest. These free campgrounds are an outstanding amenity, as many (if not most) of these campers would be dispersed camping without this option. Similarly, the BLM should develop OHV campgrounds in the Long Valley Area, in and around the hot springs and adjacent high use dirt roads.
• Restoration of Existing dispersed camping sites in and around what the Inyo National Forest classifies as the Recreation Restriction Area Boundary. Wildfire is one of the greatest threats to the vitality of Eastern Sierra communities and mitigating those risks aligns with Forest Service and BLM national policies related to wildfire mitigation.
• Continued signing of illegal dispersed camping sites to prevent continued use.
• Expansion of motorized single-track system. Currently, the Mammoth Ranger District
contains 12.2 miles of Motorized single-track. Similarly, increase the connectivity between the limited motorized single-track opportunities that do exist. E-Bikes are considered (at this time) motorized equipment and the proliferation of these modes of transportation on the landscape was not something that was envisioned when the Motorized Single-Track trail system was created. As such, the MTC specifically recommends the Inyo National Forest re-boot the Town of Mammoth Lakes Shady Rest- Inyo Craters proposal (SRIC) which seeks to address the dearth of opportunities in and around the Mammoth Ranger District.
• Monitor roads during the first winter snows and spring melt to effectively limit vehicles from accessing them to prevent resource damage.
We appreciate your consideration and look forward to further engagement in this process. Submitted on behalf of the Mammoth Trails Committee, Lawson Reif Outdoor Recreation Manager Submitted on behalf of the Mammoth Trails Committee, Lawson Reif Outdoor Recreation Manager - 5/3/2024

Hello Brett, Navigating the public comments page was a bit out of my league being somewhat computer/technology illiterate! My name is Heidi Hartman Goetz and I grew up in Mammoth and relocated to Bishop about 4 years ago. I absolutely love it here! I’m pleasantly overwhelmed at the amount of trails/roads that I encounter each week either walking my dogs or riding my dirt bike. We are so blessed to have such incredible access to these fabulous places. Not to mention a lot of these trails/roads are quite challenging as well! With that being said I’m a bit concerned about more and more people that are accessing these roads and trails as the years pass. Being a true local to these mountains, I’ve seen first hand what is taking place in our hills with this new found popularity of being in Mother Nature. Some truly respect her beauty and take only pictures and leave only footprints. However as you and I both know that is not the majority when you can drive up a lot of these roads that are too accessible to just anyone. I’m very concerned that if grant money goes to fixing roads and making them much too easy for just anyone, we open ourselves up to issues that are varied and not complementary to our beautiful outdoors. The more easy access people have in vehicles with not having to work for getting to these places, the less respect they seem to have for these places. Some of these roads that may seem to need fixing might just be roads that should be barricaded off and if people want to see where that road leads they can take a little hike and breath our fabulous air instead of polluting it. I know our access brings money to Bishop. But I also know there’s a line that should be drawn to allow access but more importantly protect what these people are coming here for in the first place. I took some pictures up in the Buttermilks the other day of the damage that’s been done to one road that I don’t think anyone needs to be driving on and what’s starting to happen alongside this road due to the destruction. I’ll do my best to try and figure out how to send those to you. Good luck with the grant. Please try to find that line that makes people happy to be here but doesn’t wreck havoc on what their here for in the first place. I appreciate all you do for our land! Thank you, Heidi Hartman Goetz Heidi Hartman Goetz - 5/6/2024

I would like to comment on the Bishop BLM grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. I see on the first page " Due to the amount of routes in the BIFO system, not all routes have been reinventoried since the 2022/2023 winter" If you cannot look at all of the routes in your office after severe weather, you need to reach out to partner organizations like CORVA and CAL4Wheel to ask them to assist in figuring out what condition your routes are in. Jeep club members and other off-roaders are looking for reasons to drive routes and to be able to assist the BLM in evaluating your route inventory would be a satisfying activity. It is irresponsible to go a year after storms without knowing the condition of your routes. You contradict yourself on page 2 when you say "Route monitoring is a critical component to successfully responding to maintenance needs. It's important that we quickly address issues to keep motorized users on routes and reduce resource damage." You have 200 hours at $65/hour for Staff-Civil Engineering Technician, but you don't say what specific projects this person is to work on. Please be specific. It is refreshing to see you have campground hosts. These people will help keep campgrounds orderly and reduce trouble. I see you want to buy a welder. I personally weld and I just bought a nice little mig welder for under $500. For your small jobs around a campground, $4200 sounds like a lot of money. Despite my above criticism, I applaud the Bishop Field Office for doing so much to maintain OHV access and recreation throughout our land. I only ask that you please ask for help when you fall behind or get in over your head. CORVA, Cal4Wheel and others would love to help your agency do a great job with managing our land together. I just spent today doing volunteer work in the Cleveland National Forest and we had about 50 people volunteering. If you get volunteers to inspect your route network or assist with other tasks, you may be able to use those hours right here as grant match. Please take advantage of the goodwill in the OHV community and ask for help. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2024

To whom this concerns, Please approve this grant application because the horribly underfunded agency need assistance in providing a comprehensive transportation system. This system is important for access to our public lands for many forms of recreation and resource extraction. This agency is dependent on these grants, so please approve them. Greg Weirick - 5/5/2024

Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) is in support of grant goals submitted by the BLM, Bishop Field Office that pertain to winter patrols in OHV areas, such as The Tungsten Hills, which has important wintering habitat for deer populations. Protecting wintering wildlife is an important piece of OHV area management, and it is important to have the staffing capacity to patrol these areas. Thank you for your consideration of our comments. We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with public agencies and winter recreation stakeholders to help develop equitable and balanced recreation opportunities. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. For more information, contact Kelly Bessem, WWA California Stewardship Manager OR Hilary Eisen, WWA Policy Director: heisen@winterwildlands.org Kelly Bessem - 5/6/2024

BLM - Eagle Lake Field Office

I support this effort to maintain and enhance the OHV areas at Fort Sage and Rive Canyon. Thank you. Kevin C Sevier - 3/6/2024

THIS GRANT COMMENT IS FROM THE EASTERN SIERRA 4X4 CLUB Submitted by Pat Woods The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club is based out of Bishop, CA. We have over 75 members and are committed to sustainable land use and good off-roading practices. We are active in our community and communicate closely with government land management agencies. We take pride in our volunteer support to the Inyo National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management. The Eastern Sierra 4WD Club takes responsibility for promoting safe and sane four wheeling. Our club is open to anyone who supports our goals and is interested in exploring our wonderful area. We support Conservation with Utilization and TREAD LIGHTLY practices. 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 beautiful and 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 our members have had with their officers in the field have been positive. Eastern Sierra 4X4 Club - 4/13/2024

THIS GRANT COMMENT IS FROM THE EASTERN SIERRA 4X4 CLUB Submitted by Pat Woods The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club is based out of Bishop, CA. We have over 75 members and are committed to sustainable land use and good off-roading practices. We are active in our community and communicate closely with government land management agencies. We take pride in our volunteer support to the Inyo National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management. The Eastern Sierra 4WD Club takes responsibility for promoting safe and sane four wheeling. Our club is open to anyone who supports our goals and is interested in exploring our wonderful area. We support Conservation with Utilization and TREAD LIGHTLY practices. This request for funding should be approved. 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. Most of these folks access public lands by vehicle. Public compliance with all laws and regulations ensures that we will have beautiful and healthy public lands 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 our members have had with their officers in the field have been positive. Eastern Sierra 4X4 Club - 4/13/2024

THIS GRANT COMMENT IS FROM THE EASTERN SIERRA 4X4 CLUB Submitted by Pat Woods The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club is based out of Bishop, CA. We have over 75 members and are committed to sustainable land use and good off-roading practices. We are active in our community and communicate closely with government land management agencies. We take pride in our volunteer support to the Inyo National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management. The Eastern Sierra 4WD Club takes responsibility for promoting safe and sane four wheeling. Our club is open to anyone who supports our goals and is interested in exploring our wonderful area. We support Conservation with Utilization and TREAD LIGHTLY practices. Ground ops; 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. This proposal should be funded. The proper and efficient monitoring, maintenance, repair and of dirt roads is essential for better resource management and provides a rewarding OHV experience for our visitors. The Winter of 2022/23 did a huge amount of damage to our area. As a group of concerned locals who have driven these roads for many years, we endorse the much-needed maintenance and repair work that will be done with this funding. Thanks Eastern Sierra 4X4 Club - 4/13/2024

BLM Eagle Lake Field office should increase their funding for Law Enforcement Patrol for labor, materials and supplies, equipment use and Other categories such as for travel. Diana Dunn - 4/29/2024

BLM - El Centro Field Office

I would like to comment on El Centro BLM Law Enforcement grant on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. The El Centro Field Office sees a huge amount of visitation at different times and needs law enforcement like what is described in the application. I believe more funds have become available for labor in the grant since the application was submitted. I hope Parks can allow the applicant to adjust their application accordingly. Ed Stovin - 4/23/2024

I would like to comment on the El Centro BLM grant applications on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle association. In your ground operation application, you mention increasing your 3. Staff-Equipment Operator to 80 hours, but have 40 hours in the application. Did you make an error? I don't see any line items for vehicle maintenance or repairs. Your match far exceeds 25%, you might look into adding items to your request or taking away some match. The law enforcement grant looks entirely reasonable. Keep up the good work signing around the dunes in your restoration application. Keep up the good work with your safety application! I'm not sure why your match is such a high percentage. Can you make an adjustment? Thanks for keeping your area friendly to us off-roaders! Ed Stovin - 4/24/2024

BLM - Needles Field Office

I request that you add more labor funding to increase law enforcement patrols in Needles Field Office OHV area. Thank you. Justin Melchor - 3/29/2024

BLM - Redding Field Office

As an avid user of Chappie-Shasta, I fully support this grant application. In addition to my personal support, I am writing on behalf of the Redding Dirt Riders Motorcycle Club (RDR) that hosts three significant events throughout the year at Chappie-Shasta. The Redding BLLM office and RDR have what all involved believe to be a unique and model relationship. Additional grant funding allows for further opportunities where RDR and BLM Redding Office can collaborate on a whole host of future projects to include trail maintenance, trail building, facilities augmentation that benefits the general public at large. I have been extremely impressed over the years of the Redding BLM Office's stewardship of public funds while increasing access while maintaining the role of stewards of our public lands for the enjoyment of future generations. In closing I read the application was for a healthy amount.......add in more. You can be rest assured any public funds will be put to their intended use by the Redding BLM Office. Thank you, Casey Bokavich Redding Dirt Riders President Casey Bokavich - 5/5/2024

Hello, Casey Bokavich here. President of the Redding Dirt Riders and retired sergeant of police. I have read the grant application for additional patrols at the Chappie-Shasta OHV. I whole heartedly support this effort. The funding of patrols on the trails is greatly needed from a safety standpoint and an educational standpoint. In over 20 years of using the OHV, I have yet to encounter a LEO on a trail. I know they have been on trail, but the size of the Chappie-Shasta OHV makes it difficult to have a visible presence without additional funding dedicated to patrols. It is well known within the Northern California OHV user community that Stonyford/East fork OHV areas are being subjected to many criminal street gang members. The last thing any regular user of Chappie-Shasta would like to see is the same thing happen here. Please fund this grant. The Redding Field Office has a track record of being excellent stewards of the public's money. Thank you, Casey Bokavich Casey Bokavich - 5/5/2024

I request that you add more labor funding to increase law enforcement patrols in Redding Field Office Chappie-Shasta OHV Area. Thank you. Christopher Straub - 5/6/2024

BLM - Ridgecrest Field Office

I request that you add more labor funding to increase law enforcement patrols in the Ridgecrest Field Office OHV area. Iliana Espinoza - 3/27/2024

Requesting funds are added more towards labor to increase law enforcement patrols in the Ridgecrest Field Office OHV area. Jovanna Troncoso - 3/27/2024

The BLM Barstow and Ridgecrest Field Offices have responsibility for the off-highway motor vehicle routes in the area known as the Western Mojave Route Network Project. I own property in the area and I have concerns related to safety and education of OHV users. The project description focuses on use by OHV riders of public land. The project doesn't discuss at all activities on private property in the area. In the section on "Location of Training/Services - 4970.13(f)(5)" it states that "This project will take place on lands managed and maintained by the Ridgecrest Field Office. These lands include over 1.8 million acres of public lands within Kern, San Bernardino, Mono, Inyo, and Los Angeles Counties." There is no mention of the fact that the Friends of Jawbone "Jawbone Canyon and Ridgecrest Area" map shows 115 BLM designated routes on approximately 96,000 acres of private property. I have comments on safety and education related to this designation of routes on private property. LIABILITY OF TRESPASSING RIDERS Federal regulation 43 CFR §8341.1 requires riders to abide by the designation order, including staying on designated routes. Cal. Penal Code §602(n) states that "[d]riving any vehicle ... upon real property belonging to ... another and known not to be open to the general public, without the consent of the owner" is a misdemeanor. Cal. Evidence Code 669(a) states that "[t]he failure of a person to exercise due care is presumed if: (1) He violated a statute, ordinance, or regulation of a public entity; (2) The violation proximately caused death or injury to person or property; (3) The death or injury resulted from an occurrence of the nature which the statute, ordinance, or regulation was designed to prevent." The regulations and statutes that prohibit driving on private property and Cal. Evidence Code §669 indicate that trespassing that leads to an accident is a negligent act. LANDOWNER IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY: Cal. PRC §5090.38 states in relevant part that "[n]o owner or other person having legal control of property in the vicinity of any lands in the system is liable for any actions of any type resulting from, or caused by, the user of an off-highway motor vehicle." Definition of 'the system' is in PRC §5090.09: "'System' means the state vehicular recreation areas, the California Statewide Motorized Trail, areas and trails within the state park system, and areas supported by the grant program." Since OHMVR grant funds have been used throughout this area, the area is a part of 'the system'. Based on the definition of 'the system', the use of OHMVR grant funds in the WMRNP, and the content of PRC §5090.38 it is clear that property owners are not liable for the consequences of trespass by off-highway motor vehicles in the WMRNP. LIABILITY OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES Courts have provided guidance on the extent of and limits to liability of government agencies to people who are engaged in recreational activities. I limit my discussion to two cases that bear on the issue of liability for the consequences of the designation of off-highway motor vehicle routes on private property. Termini v. United States of America, 963 F.2d 1264 is one case that covers several important issues. I quote from the decision to cover some of the essential points. First, "the Federal Tort Claims Act ... 28 U.S.C. §1346(b) ... renders the United States liable in tort to the same extent as a private individual under the law of the place where an injury occurs." PRC §5090.38, which protects landowners, also protects the BLM for accidents on BLM land. Throughout the WMRNP the BLM has placed route signs on private property. The BLM estimates that there are 1370 miles of off-highway motor vehicle routes on private property. (This estimate is provided by the BLM on page 4-115 of its Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for the WMRNP.) Based on the density of signs that I have observed in a sample of 2 sections of private property I estimate that there are approximately 7 signs per linear mile of BLM route, so an estimate of 9,600 BLM route markers on private property is reasonable. The BLM also produces and helps distribute Friends of Jawbone (FoJ) OHV route maps that show hundreds of routes through private property. On the FoJ Jawbone Canyon and Ridgecrest Area map I have identified 115 BLM routes on sections of private property that total approximately 96,000 acres. (The routes that I have located on private property are listed at the end of this comment.) The back of the map states that "[t]his map is produced through a partnership between the Bureau of Land Management Ridgecrest Field Office, the State of California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division, and Friends of Jawbone. This map is just one example of how working together improves the trail experience for all." In addition to the route markers and the FoJ maps, the BLM has joined with OHMVR, FoJ, and the Transition Habitat Conservancy (THC) to place kiosks with large format maps that promote BLM routes on private property in the area. With signs on private property, maps that show routes on private property, an iPhone app that shows routes on private property, and kiosks with large format maps that show routes on private property, the BLM has designated across hundreds of thousands of acres of private property and has extensively promoted off-highway motor vehicle recreation on private property. Obviously that implies that the BLM, OHMVR, FoJ, and THC bear responsibility for the suitability of private property for OHV activity. I have noted that the BLM has no liability for OHV accidents on its own property under PRC §5090.38. But when the BLM and other entities designate private property for off-highway motor vehicle recreation, PRC §5090.38 is inapplicable, because it only protects the property owner. The statute states that "[n]o owner or other person having legal control of property in the vicinity of any lands in the system is liable for any actions of any type resulting from, or caused by, the user of an off-highway motor vehicle." The BLM is not an "other person having legal control" of private property. In Termini v. United States of America the USFS based its defense on Cal. Civil Code §846. That statute states that a landowner "owes no duty of care to keep the premises safe for entry or use by others for any recreational purpose or to give any warning of hazardous conditions, uses of, structures, or activities on such premises to persons entering for such purpose, except as provided in this section." This statute has been used frequently by government agencies to protect the agencies against liability claims by recreational users of government land. Most often, the defense is successful. As with PRC §5090.38, this defense will be unavailable to the BLM for accidents that occur on private property, where the BLM has designated that private property for off-highway motor vehicle recreation, since the BLM is not the landowner, and the statute only immunizes the landowner. At the beginning of my comment, I noted that by Cal. Evidence Code §669 a trespassing rider is negligent per se for an accident. It might seem that would protect the BLM from liability, and it does, but only partially. In von Tagen v. United States, 557 F. Supp. 256 (N.D. Cal. 1983), von Tagen sued the federal government "for injuries suffered in an automobile accident which occurred on federal property while plaintiff was engaged in a recreational use. Plaintiff alleges that the accident resulted from the government's failure to erect a guardrail or warning sign at a dangerously sharp curve on Conzelman Road in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, located in Marin County, California." The court in this case wrote that "while four of the prior accidents occurred when the driver was exceeding the posted speed limit, as was the plaintiff in this action, the contributory negligence of those drivers is no defense to the charge of willful misconduct on the part of the government." The court went on to state that "the government had knowledge of the hazard and of the probability of injury and ... that failure to provide greater protections was so far below accepted highway safety engineering practice as to amount to a conscious failure." The most important points from von Tagen v. United States are (1) that contributory negligence of the plaintiff "is no defense to the charge of willful misconduct on the part of the government" and (2) that the defense in Cal. Civil Code §846 is only available to the owner of the property and those who have a legal interest in the property. Neither is the case on the private property in the WMRNP, so the BLM will not be able to utilize the landowner immunity defense in CCC §846. LIST OF ROUTES ON PRIVATE PROPERTY SHOWN ON THE JAWBONE CANYON AND RIDGECREST AREA MAP Black Mountain district: BM6233, BM6237, BM6241, BM6245, BM6256, BM6257, BM6260, BM6265, BM6319, BM6321, BM6322, BM6325, BM6332, BM6344, BM6346, BM6349, BM6355, BM6357, BM6361, BM6362, BM6363, BM6364, BM6365, BM6366, BM6368, BM6370, BM6375, BM6377, BM6381, BM6383, BM6387 Fremont Peak district: FP5165, FP5215, FP5229, FP5261, FP5314, FP5316, FP5320, FP5334, FP5340, FP5342, FP5344, FP5346, FP5350, FP5356, FP5357, FP5358, FP5359, FP5367, FP5373, FP5381, FP5383, FP5385, FP5386, FP5387, FP5388, FP5391, FP5395, FP5396, FP5398, FP5402, FP5406, FP5410, FP5430, FP6115, FP6200, FP6202, FP6209, FP6215, FP6231, FP6300, FP6304, FP6305, FP6306, FP6307, FP6322, FP6417, FP6380, FP7159 Harper Lake district: HL6253, HL6255, HL6265, HL6290, HL6454 Red Mountain district: RM4, RM18, RM28, RM29, RM30, RM32, RM34, RM44, RM41, RM62, RM68, RM70, RM76, RM86, RM89A, RM91, RM98, RM101, RM107, RM151, RM155, RM177, RM199, RM216, RM273, RM323, RM329, RM335, RM407, RM1180, RM5155 Steven Gjerstad - 4/26/2024

BLM - Ukiah Field Office

I would like to see more hours for law enforcement patrols of South Cow Mountain and Knoxville. BLM rangers also needs funding for more support services and removing dumped vehicles. I hate seeing all of the destroyed abandoned vehicles that get dumped at Indian valley and Knoxville. They become such eye sores and make the area less safe. Rick Schumacher - 4/5/2024

US FOREST SERVICE

USFS - Angeles National Forest

USFS - Cleveland National Forest

I write as a resident of Santa Ana. This is an excellent proposal. I am excited at the prospect of it receiving funding. Responsible use of public OHV lands will need funding as outlined in the application. Thank you for your consideration. Nathaniel Greensides - 4/17/2024

I would like to comment on the Cleveland National Forest grant applications on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. I was in Corral Canyon today trimming Ranger trail with all the others at a trail working day. I thank Gabe for being there with us. I looked around and the area looks like it is well maintained. The grants for the north and south both look reasonable, even modest compared to others. What I would really like to see is an expansion of opportunities in Wildomar. 8 miles of trails is simply not enough. You say in the application that there are 20 million people and 729,000 OHV's in the region. I would love to see a general plan amendment to increase the amount of routes. I also saw you want to spend $65,000 to maintain those 8 miles at Wildomar. That is a crazy high amount of money for 8 miles. That is $8,000 per mile. How much work is really being done there? One pass in the spring should be 1/10 the cost. Maybe I should start a business, because I know I can save you a heck of a lot of money there. If I could have one wish granted from the CNF, I would ask for Carveacre trail to be re-opened. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2024

USFS - Inyo National Forest

This proposal should be funded. The Covid pandemic brought a lot of people to our area who had no idea how to properly recreate in a rural environment and many caused damage. Since then our area has experienced a huge increase in the number 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. Proper and efficient monitoring, maintenance and repair of level 2 roads and repair of damage is essential for better resource management. As an individual who has patrolled and driven these roads for over 30 years, I endorse the much-needed maintenance and repair work that will be done with this funding. Thanks Pat Woods - 3/30/2024

This proposal should be funded. Our area 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. Proper and efficient monitoring, maintenance and repair of level 2 roads is essential for better resource management and they provide a rewarding OHV experience for our visitors. The winter of 2023 did a huge amount of damage to many roads in our area and made many roads unsafe. There needs to be consistent maintenance and this grant will help. As an individual who has patrolled and driven these roads for over 30 years, I endorse the much-needed maintenance and repair work that will be done with this funding. Thanks Pat Woods - 3/30/2024

The Inyo National Forest (INF) like other agencies has seen a significant increase in recreational users in the last 6 years, most of those users are new to outdoor recreation. As such the impacts are not linear as the time previous and neither can be the efforts to correct. This large influx of users, coupled with a large amount of novice users, has created significant impacts which must be addressed if our much loved outdoor recreation opportunities are to continue. This INF restoration grant should be implemented in full, with staff and resources, to start a long term effort to maintain, restore and educate (yet another program much needed) the ever increasing numbers of recreational users. The restoration grant would help mitigate the past and ongoing impacts so the maintenance aspects can be addressed. And likewise the maintenance aspects need to be addressed otherwise users will create bypasses around impacted areas. The issues are tied at the hip. I fully support the INF efforts in clearly identifying the issues, working with the community and volunteer organizations and making a change benefiting all users. Thank you for your consideration in this application. Michael Lueders - 4/11/2024

Full disclosure, I am directly involved with one of the non-profits mentioned in this grant and our non profit organization also has a GO grant application in this cycle. Having said that I believe I am uniquely qualified to make a statement in support of this grant as I clearly understand the need. The increase in both recreational users and new users needing guidance on sustainable recreation is taking it's toll on public lands. This goes for ALL recreational uses but I will focus on the motorized aspects. The increase in use comes at an unfortunate time when Inyo National Forest (INF) staffing levels are critically low. Our region is more so hampered by a lack of any housing, affordable or otherwise. The need for grant funding for ongoing operations to maintain existing recreational opportunities and protect our public natural resources is, bluntly, required. The INF has made a tremendous effort to tap into volunteers and non profits to help with the ongoing maintenance but much work is needed and without the funding and support we are all just a bunch of passionate recreational users standing around hoping to make a change. I not only fully endorse the INF efforts on this grant but I encourage the State to approve and fund it. Michael Lueders - 4/11/2024

Please support funding this Grant Proposal. As a Bishop resident and member of the Eastern Sierra 4 Wheel Drive Club, I have seen a large increase in the amount of traffic on our OHV roads and trails. Not everyone accessing our public lands utilizing these roads are experienced and use good judgement. Having roads in good condition helps keep not only the inexperience safe but all those recreating on our public lands safe. Proper monitoring, maintenance and repair of the roads and Forest is also essential for wild fire prevention or fighting. I urge you to fund this Grant. Thank you. Debby Hidalgo - 4/12/2024

THIS GRANT COMMENT IS FROM THE EASTERN SIERRA 4X4 CLUB Submitted by Pat Woods The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club is based out of Bishop, CA. We have over 75 members and are committed to sustainable land use and good off-roading practices. We are active in our community and communicate closely with government land management agencies. We take pride in our volunteer support to the Inyo National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management. The Eastern Sierra 4WD Club takes responsibility for promoting safe and sane four wheeling. Our club is open to anyone who supports our goals and is interested in exploring our wonderful area. We support Conservation with Utilization and TREAD LIGHTLY practices. This proposal should be funded. The Covid pandemic brought a lot of people to our area who had no idea how to properly recreate in a rural environment and many caused damage. Since then our area has experienced a huge increase in the number 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. Proper and efficient monitoring, restoration, maintenance and repair of level 2 roads is essential for better resource management. As a group of concerned locals who have driven these roads for many years, we endorse the much-needed restoration, maintenance and repair work that will be done with this funding. Thanks Eastern Sierra 4X4 Club - 4/13/2024

THIS GRANT COMMENT IS FROM THE EASTERN SIERRA 4X4 CLUB Submitted by Pat Woods The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club is based out of Bishop, CA. We have over 75 members and are committed to sustainable land use and good off-roading practices. We are active in our community and communicate closely with government land management agencies. We take pride in our volunteer support to the Inyo National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management. The Eastern Sierra 4WD Club takes responsibility for promoting safe and sane four wheeling. Our club is open to anyone who supports our goals and is interested in exploring our wonderful area. We support Conservation with Utilization and TREAD LIGHTLY practices. This proposal should be funded. Our area 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. Proper and efficient monitoring, maintenance and repair of level 2 roads is essential for better resource management and they provide a rewarding OHV experience for our visitors. The winter of 2022/23 did a huge amount of damage to many roads in our area and made many roads unsafe. There needs to be consistent maintenance and this grant will help. As a group of concerned locals who have driven these roads for many years, we endorse the much-needed maintenance and repair work that will be done with this funding. Thanks Eastern Sierra 4X4 Club - 4/13/2024

As an avid off road user, resident, and business owner in Bishop, this grant is much needed to support the maintenance and infrastructure of our beautiful forest and ohv trails. Jennifer Whitney - 4/16/2024

The INyo National Forest receives many visiotrs and a lot of wear and tear. The INyo needs this funding to support important restoration work on the forest. Jennifer Whitney - 4/16/2024

The INyo National Forest receives many visiotrs and a lot of wear and tear. The INyo needs this funding to support importaint restoration work on the forest. Jennifer Whitney - 4/16/2024

I am writing to express my full support for the grant application submitted by the Inyo National Forest aimed at maintaining access to our public lands. It is evident that our forests are facing significant challenges due to underfunding, as they strive to balance the crucial aspects of providing access while also protecting our natural resources. Over the past five years, our region has experienced a notable increase in traffic, exacerbated by the impacts of COVID-19 and the widespread influence of social media. Unfortunately, this surge in visitors has taken a toll on our infrastructure, leading to its gradual deterioration. Regrettably, there is currently no budget allocated for the necessary repairs and maintenance. The grant funding being sought would represent a vital investment in the upkeep and maintenance of our infrastructure, thereby ensuring continued access for all user groups within the Inyo National Forest. It is essential to recognize the importance of preserving access to our public lands, as they serve as valuable resources for recreation, conservation, and enjoyment for all. I urge you to consider the significance of this grant application and its potential to address the pressing needs of our forest infrastructure. By supporting this initiative, we can work towards safeguarding access to our public lands for present and future generations. Thank you for your consideration. Scott Stoner - 5/1/2024

I would like to comment on the Inyo National Forest grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. In reviewing the Inyo National Forest application, I see hourly rates much lower than in other forests. Have a look at other forest's grant applications and think about giving your people a raise. Everything in the application looks good. Thank you for taking care of OHV in the Inyo. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2024

My comments/input apply to the requests made for the South portion of the INF’s Grant Request. As a CA Green Sticker vehicle owner/user and a landowner in the South portion of the Inyo NF I am supportive of the Inyo’s OHV Grant request. However, after reviewing their request I find several potential errors in their request. Their request (pg. 9: 1 Staff 2.) to increase the GS level of the OHV Techs to a GS-7 level is valid as they have not been able to staff the Monache Meadow area for over 5+ years. The bulk, if not all, of the OHV activity in their “South Zone” is within the Monache Meadow area. Their proposal to have 2 OHV Techs in this area would be welcomed by ALL property owners and Range Permitees as this area has been over run and abused by OHV Users coming in from the Sequoia NF to the south of Monache . The Inyo NF request in Staff Line Item 1. 2 (pg.9). appears to be over stated. Their request is for 2,078 man-hours, which is equivalent to 1 man-year. Assuming their proposal to assign 2 OHV Techs, that would equate to a 6-month duty cycle. In the past, although many years ago, their typical presence has only been June thru Sept – 4 months. - I recommend this request be reduced to actual needs. Their request for “Per Diem” is incorrectly stated (pg. 16 Others 1). Their request is for 200 hours at a $/hr. Per Diem is usually stated as $/day. As Monache is a remote site/assignment this is an appropriate request if stated correctly. ADDITIONAL COMMENT: In the past the INF Monache OHV patrol has used overnight lodging at the Blackrock Fire Station of the Sequoia National Forest. The Inyo National Forest OWNS or has ACCESS to 3 cabins in the Monache Meadow Area. The daily travel to the Blackrock Station is unwarranted and unnecessary and should not be part of the CA OHV Grant funds. One-way travel from Monache to Blackrock is approximately 1 ½ hours, thus limiting “on duty INF OHV patrol” to 5 hours at most. Dion Salfen - 5/5/2024

USFS - Lassen National Forest

Dear USFS, Thank you for the opportunity to provide public comment to the General Application Requirements. As a property owner with the Lott's Lake Association (LLA), I am intimately involved with the ongoing issue of trespass across USFS land and through LLA property. Offending drivers circumvent existing locked gates and ignore signage in an effort to avoid using trail 611. The area locally named 'The T' is heavily abused by folks going off trail. This has gotten much worse since the Dixie Fire. This area, below Pilot Rock, is where the Northern border of the LLA and Lassen NF intersect and is the Northern drainage into Lott's Lake. In an effort to stop the cheater trails around our gates and to stop the negative impact on the soil and flora in the area, we have dropped and strategically positioned trees adjacent to the gates on LLA property. Although this effort has shown to slow down the occurrence of trespass, drivers continue to find their way around, damaging the hillside with increasing tenacity. As a child I remember the area north of the T, which is now a gravel staging area, being a beautiful meadow. Thank you to the USFS for bringing in the gravel and making the area less of a mud pit. However, without intervention, the areas east and south of the T face the same destiny. The LLA would like to work together with the USFS in order to bring an end to the off trail abuse and restore this area. The installation of rock barriers would help greatly in allowing the area to return to nature. Respectfully submitted, Anthony "Tony" D'Ambrosio Anthony D'Ambrosio - 3/6/2024

March 6, 2024 Dear USFS, In response to your request for comments regarding the USFS Lassen National Forest Grant, we applaud the “Project Described for Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program 2024.” The “Project Description” on page 1 of Ground Operations is of particular interest. Specifically, the proposed increased law enforcement, which has been noticeably absent in past years. On page 8, under “Project Cost Estimates,” the stated desire to use native, on-site, materials to block and disguise unauthorized routes is a welcome solution. We encourage the use of large boulders, especially near the “T.” As private property owners in the High Lakes Area, we are concerned about the continual trespass around our Lotts Lake Association (LLA) gates. Most off-road users are now using the NEW 611 OHV Road. However, some OHV users refused to use the New 611 and chose to attempt to make unauthorized roads across USFS Property onto our property to bypass the New 611, creating erosion problems and damaging the watershed. Thank you for caring for our forests. Tony & Kathryn D’Ambrosio Tony & Kathryn D'Ambrosio - 3/6/2024

USFS - Los Padres National Forest

In general we are in strong support of Los Padres Ground Ops application, however we do have a number of comments. We strongly support the purchase of the equipment trailer and UTV trailers. The SLRD currently has to use a dump trailer for this purpose, which is very heavy and ill suited for transporting equipment and SXSs. We strongly support the "other" staff per diem line item #10. Los Padres recently hired a number of new rec staff. Due to the size of Los Padres and the remote location of OHV areas, staff have to travel 2 hours or more from a district office to reach them. Rec staff are required to pick up a vehicle at the District office and return it at the end of the work day, which means by the time they reach a worksite there is almost no time left to do any work before they have to return to the district office to clock out. If rec staff had a "per diem " hopefully they could stay closer to worksite, or perhaps they could restructure their time so they would be more productive. Also we note that the application does not include any mileage or fuel cost for Forest owned vehicles. There are only a limited number of FS vehicles available, and I understand that the SLRD rec staff has to travel as a group because only one truck is available. There are currently four rec techs on the District , and they are very limited in what they can do because they have to share a single vehicle. Fortunately two of the rec techs have their UTV certification, so they can use a 4 place SXS to reach worksite locations, but they need their own truck and trailer to tow the SXS to worksites. (The trailer is included in the grant request. ) One of the activities listed for rec staff is campgound maintenance. This is going to be limited on some areas of the SLRD because the three campgrounds usually used by OHV are managed by the concesionaire, Parks Management. There should be a clear delineation of tasks as to what Parks Managmement is responsible for and what rec staff will do. Parks Management made some improvements to facilties, but they took them over in a state of deferred maintenance, and more repairs and improvements are needed. Service by Parks Management has been variable due to staff turnover, and assistance from rec staff would be most welcome. The trash at these facilities is usually overflowing after a holiday weekend, for example. It seems unclear who is responsible for pumping the vault toilets at the Pozo facilities, which is very costly, and as a result this has not been done for several years. With respect to PCE item #7, volunteer dozer operator and swampers, we request that the SLRD volunteer item be withdrawn from the application. The CCTRA does not currently have the capacity to provide this item. With repect to line item #6, staff archaeologist, we suggest that if possible and necessary this item be increased. Although Los Padres has NEPA documents that support road and trail maintenance, they require that archaeological surveys must be adequate before Level 2 maintenance can be done. Unfortunately many of the Forest Roads on the SLRD have not had adequate arch surveys. The current Heritage program staff is beyond capacity due to storm damage related work from last year. The result has been disasterous for the ML2 road system. Maintenance of ML 2 roads has been delayed for as long as 3 years due to the lack of archaeologic surveys, and even storm damage from last winter has not been repaired. Previously simple grading and drainage work will now require major reconstruction at a far higher cost. We had funding available for these projects for the past 2-3 years, but have been unable to execute them due to the lack of surveys. Fortunately the SLRD was recently been able to hire an aracheologist for the district. Please consider increasing the grant request for this item if possible. With respect to staff match, we willing to provide up to 500 hours of volunteer labor or other equivalent match for Los Padres. We are currently required to provide our own HMP, and this has limited the support we are able to provide. If we are able to utilize Los Padres HMP in the future this might change. Respectfully, Bruce Whitcher, CCTRA Bruce Whitcher - 4/25/2024

Comments on 2024 Los Padres NF OHV Planning Grant We generally support the Planning Grant application because it will address the improvement of a number of facilities around the Forest, including Turkey Flats, Navajo Flats, Ortega Trail, Gold Hill campground and Upper Oso Campground. The reasons for reviewing the existing OHV Level 1 and 2 Trail Maintenance CE document are not entirely clear, and we would like to have additional information about this. For example the proposal estimates the mileage of OHV Routes on the Los Padres to be 450 miles. The mileage of roads and trails varies depending on the source cited. For example the Los Padres G 24 Ground Ops application states that there are 335 miles of OHV trail and approximately 72 miles of road maintained on the Los Padres for a total of 407 miles. Upon reviewing the 2017 OHV Trail Maintenance CE, the mileage of the trail system is listed as 335 miles. However the 2021 Road Maintenance CE lists the mileage of Forest roads as 183.20 miles. Some of these roads may in fact be closed to non- highway licensed OHVs. Los Padres should identify which roads and trails are going to undergo review and the objective for doing this. The Planning grant application states that there are gaps in the Level I and II trail maintenance CE related to when Level II trail maintenance may be performed. This varies depending on the area where trails are located. The main gap is for areas where cultural surveys are inadequate to allow Level 2 maintenance. This is stated in Appendix B of the 2017 CE: "Trail maintenance can only be carried out in areas that have been archaeologically surveyed and where no documented historic properties are present, unless an archeologist is present to monitor trail maintenance activities." In 2020 the Los Padres Heritage program manager issued a memo for the Pozo La Panza trail system which cleared all but two short segments of two trails for Level II maintenance. Unfortunately other areas of Los Padres, such as Rockfront Ranch and Buckhorn Ridge, may not have had adequate cultural surveys. We understand that the MPRD OHV trails have had adequate cultural surveys and have been cleared for Level II maintenance ( personal communication, Loreigh Brannan). It would be helpful to identify which areas have adequate cultural surveys and which do not, so we support this aspect of the proposal. We would submit that additional biological surveys may or may not be necessary. Presumably there has been ongoing communication regarding the OHV program between Los Padres and the various consulting agencies referenced in the supporting BA/BE, including USFWS, NOAA Fisheries, ACE, SHPO etc. One of the requirements of the OHV Grants program is that Los Padres must prepare a Habitat Management Plan (HMP) as part of their grant application. The HMP must be updated periodically, and new listed species added. Ongoing monitoring of species listed in the HMP is required. As a result OHV trails are intensively managed and additional specialist review to allow Level II maintenance may not be necessary. With respect to the 5 proposed campground facility projects, they will clearly require the full range of resource studies before significant improvements can be done. In 2013 we received grant funding to prepare a concept design for Turkey Flats. We have long anticipated this project moving to the next stage, so this proposal is a welcome development. However Turkey Flats is a very small area with adjacent private property. The prospects for expansion of the area may be very limited. The fact that Turkey Flats is managed by Parks Management has resulted in displacement of use to the adjacent trailhead area known as "Turkey II" . These two discontinuous areas effectively serve as one OHV staging area, and an expansion plan will need to include both areas. With respect to Navajo Flats, the project description states that access to this facility is limited due to storm damage to Red Hill Road. We support a study to improve Red Hill road because the road is in relatively poor condition. Unfortunately Red Hill Rd is classified as a ML3 road ( closed to non-highway licensed vehicles) and may not be eligible for grant funding. Navajo Flats underwent significant improvements in 2013, funded by OHV RTP, and San Luis Obispo County grants. The project planner was the SLRD Landscape Architect at the time. Traffic control barriers were placed, including a welded steel pipe fence to protect the adjacent Navajo Creek. Rock obstacles were placed to delineate parking and the entire staging area was graded. Concrete pads for camping locations were placed, and shade structures were later installed by volunteers. A youth track was constructed. The existing vault toilet was deemed to be adequate and was left in place without improvements. Informational kiosks were installed. Unfortunately, from our perspective, the area was dealt a setback when it was turned over to Parks Management. A previous Forest Adventure pass site became a fee area, and the cost increased from $5 for a day use pass to $10 for parking and $20 for overnight camping. This has displaced use to adjacent dispersed camping areas along Red Hill Rd with associated resource impacts. Because Navajo Flats only recently underwent significant improvements we submit that there may be limited opportunity for further expansion and improvement of the site. The area may not be large enough to include a 4X4 obstacle course, and a project of this type should be preceded by a user survey to determine interest. Adding more camping and parking may require the addition of a additional vault toilet. The current spacing of the parking is pleasant, with enough space between sites. Adding more sites could increase density and potentially detract from the visitor experience. There is some potential for expanding the area past the youth track further up McGinnis Creek trail , but this may or may not be desirable due to resource impacts. Navajo Flats seems to have sufficient capacity for even large events, such as the New Year's day ride every year. We conclude that this may be a situation where " if it's not broken, don't fix it." With respect to the Upper Oso Campground improvement, this is clearly needed because the area was heavily damaged by storms during 2023. We understand that trail access to this area is limited past the first creek crossing, so the crossing should be addressed as part of the project. We are not very familiar with this area, so we would defer to other users who are. With respect to the Ortega trailhead improvement project, this has long been overdue. Because Ortega is an expert level trail we recommend making only limited primitive trailhead improvements with an emphasis on traffic safety. We do not support widening the trail to accommodate side by sides or other types of motorized use. Shared use by mountain bikes and hikers is appropriate for this type of trail. Equestrians who use the trail should be reminded that they may encounter mechanized users. As the only motorized trail on the ORD, Ortega trail is unique and should be preserved for appropriate use. This trail is a precious resource because very little expert level single track remains available . It is well established that this is a relatively low impact form of OHV use. With respect to the Gold Hill Campground improvement project, this has merit. There are few if any water sources in the area, and the campground is adjacent to the Piru Creek and Snowy trails, two of the best trails on the MPRD. Snowy and Piru Creek trails are expert level trails that will attract limited visitation by expert level motorcyclists seeking maximum challenge. These trails will need to have very sturdy width limiters to prevent SXSs from attempting to use the trails, with potentially disastrous results. Gold Hill Rd is currently restricted to highway licensed vehicles only. This effectively closes Gold Hill to most OHVs. There have been past discussions about creating a parallel route to Gold Hill that would be open to OHV's, but locating this route was problematic. The Hungry Valley SVRA is in the final stages of preparing a new General Plan that includes repaving Gold Hill Rd. Please consider some coordination with State Parks on the Goldhill campground project. This would be highly beneficial to visitors to both the SVRA and Los Padres NF. In summary, we support this planning grant. As you might imagine we would like to see many more campground and trail improvements on the Los Padres. Bruce Whitcher - 5/2/2024

I am submitting these comments to the USFS-Los Padres National Forest’s 2024 planning grant application. As an OHV motorcycle rider I am significantly interested in the Grant Application. My use of OHVs is primarily in the Pozo/La Panza region (part of the Santa Lucia District), but through my affiliation with the Central Coast Trail Riders Association (CCTRA) I have an interest in OHV issues throughout the Los Padres National Forest. Let me say at the outset that I am very supportive of the Grant Application and I am pleased to see that the Los Padres National Forest (LPNF) has initiated these plans. My comments are intended to clarify some of the issues; in particular items addressed in the Santa Lucia District. SANTA LUCIA DISTRICT The Grant Application identifies two planning projects in the Pozo/La Panza region of the Santa Lucia District; namely planning projects that pertain to Turkey Flats and Navajo Flats staging areas. These two staging areas are the primary staging areas serving the Pozo/La Panza region. Navajo Flats is generally accessed from Highway 58/Red Hill Road in the eastern portion of the region and is somewhat favored by users coming from North San Luis Obispo County and the Central Valley. Turkey Flats is generally accessed using Pozo Road/Parkhill Road in the western portion of the region and is somewhat favored by users coming from the City of San Luis Obispo and areas south of the city. Both staging areas where initially user created and are estimated to be more than 70 years old. In approximately 2006 the CCMA (predecessor to the CCTRA) began the process of developing plans to improve Navajo Flats with designated camping and picnic facilities and a “youth” track. The CCMA worked with the Forest Service, the County of San Luis Obispo and the OHV Division of State Parks to fund and construct these improvements. This project was completed in approximately 2012. Turkey Flats Improvement Project. In approximately 2013 the CCTRA began developing plans for the improvement of Turkey Flats similar to what was done at Navajo Flats. These included plans for designated camping and picnic sites and a designated “youth” track. With planning grant funding from the County of San Luis Obispo, the CCTRA arranged for the creation of conceptual drawings. The plans were shared with the Forest Service and discussion began to move forward on this project. Subsequently the CCTRA was informed by the Forest Service that due to priority projects, and limited resources, the Turkey Flats improvement project was removed from the Forest Service’s program of work. As a result, no further work was done on this project. I am very anxious to see a return to the planning work for a project to improve Turkey Flats. Navajo Flats. While Navajo Flats has benefited from some improvements, there is additional work needed. Red Hill Road Access to Navajo Flats. As stated in the Grant Application, Red Hill Road was severely damaged in the 2023 winter storms. Although it is passable, the road is very rough and limited to use by some vehicles such as large trailers and motorhomes. Redesign to Increase Campsite Density. The existing campsite improvement are very nice and include shade structures, concrete pads, tables and fire rings. However, there are currently only six sites. A redesign could yield additional sites without disrupting the existing sites and provide a cost-effective means of increasing capacity without adversely impacting the user experience. The Forest Service should coordinate with user groups to examine redesign concepts. Redesign to Add OHV Tracks and Obstacle Course. The existing “youth” track is for motorcycles and has worked out well. It is maintained by users and provides a great opportunity for younger riders. What is missing is motorcycle riding opportunities linked to Navajo Flats for riders of all ages and full-size motorcycles. This could be provided with a closed course track (like the youth track) or revisions to contiguous trails that will providing loops and connectivity. Examples of trail revision that could be examined is a link connecting Quail Trail (15E10) with McGinnis Creek Trail (16E22) and/or Navajo Bypass Trail (16E23). This is a redesign that has previously been discussed and has good potential. It would provide a nice loop starting and ending at Navajo Flats that could be suitable for adult beginners and youth. It could also mitigate the risks of the “out-and-back” situation that currently exists with McGinnis Creek Trail. Another potential revision is to allow OHV use of Navajo Road from Navajo Flats to Five Points (at the intersection of Black Mountain Road). Again, this loop would start and end at Navajo Flats. This section of Navajo Road is very suitable for OHV use and in fact it is frequently used by OHVs even though such use is disallowed. The Forest Services mentions “obstacle” courses. As a motorcycle rider I think of an obstacle course as a “trials” course. Trials riders use specialty motorcycles to navigate rocks and tight turns while keeping their feet on the pegs. It is a slow, quite riding experience and a trials course can use a relatively small area. Currently there are no public trials courses in the Santa Lucia District so there is a need. The Forest Service should coordinate with user groups to examine these redesign concepts and grant money could be used effectively for this purpose. OJAI AND MOUNT PINOS DISTRICT As I mentioned above, most of my personal experience relates to the Santa Lucia District, but I am generally familiar with issues affecting OHV use (primarily motorcycle) in the Ojai and Mount Pinos District. I am acquainted with users in those areas and I have ridden some of the trails. I support Grant Application as to these areas and I applaud the Forest Service’s effort to initiate the planning process. Dennis D Law - 5/3/2024

The Ortega Trail staging area project was at one point completed up to needing approval by the ologists, new route established and flagged in. Charlie, Diane, Bob Kilpatrick (Caltrans) and myself had all worked on it but are now all retired. The users wanted to just use the existing original trail but Charlie was insistent that a new route was needed that did not violate slope maximums of OLGA as most of Ortega Trail does. Bob had volunteered Caltrans to move the gate back and divide the open area with a fence to save part of it for their use. He also offered to supply some K-rail to create a loading dock for us. The creek crossing just off of 33 leading into the staging area washed out last year and has not yet been repaired. This was originally the trailhead and staging area for Ortega but was taken over many years ago by Caltrans, their dumping of material in past years has created quite a large flat area. They are no longer allowed to fill the canyon in, but they still use it to temporarily stock-pile materials. Users are adamantly against widening of Ortega trail!!! The top three miles of the Nine mile trail are old jeep road, from Ortega Camp to the end of Cherry Canyon Road. That section would be easy to convert to multi-use, as it was until just a few years ago. But as I recall, there is an issue with OHV use on Cherry Canyon Road. The bottom six miles of Ortega are rare challenging single track and need to stay that way as these difficult trails for experienced users are becoming extinct. Gold Hill Camp has never been established, it is just a popular spot due to its being close to Piru Creek. It is just a mostly flat area that has been cleared of brush over the years by repeated use. The last several years the FS has been providing port-a-potties at the site. The OHV community does not have any issue with improvements at this site. I recall some years ago discussions of creating a dirt road that would parallel Gold Hill Road for OHV use, which sounded good at the time. With the huge increase in popularity of SXS's and with it the increase of motorcycle/SXS collision fatalities, the motorcycle OHV community is against anything more than a single track trail in this area. The only OHV attractions in the area are the advanced motorcycle only trails (Piru and Snowy) and so don't warrant the use by larger vehicles. What I remember is when I talked with the SVRA they said they were waiting on the FS and the FS said they were waiting on the SVRA, something about a land swap agreement and the FS thinking they were giving up alot and receiving little. Phil Phil Pulley - 5/3/2024

Another long-lost project is the "Cross-Forest Trail" which was supposed to replace Toad Springs Trail back when the Chumash Wilderness was created. As I understand, the deal was that Toad Springs Trail was to remain open until such time as an alternate OHV route outside the Wilderness is created. I was working with Roy Morris on this back when he was MPRD's DR. Where it stood last Roy and I talked just prior to his transfer is that his research had found the FS had presented the OHV community with a route that utilized ridge tops and the OHVers had said they wanted canyon bottoms. I told Roy that did not sound logical to me that it came from an OHVer with maintenance experience, as they would know that ridge top is low maintenance and canyon bottoms are high maintenance. My response to Roy was I believe that the OHV community would best be served by a combination of both with the canyons being carefully selected so not to create a high maintenance situation. Phil Phil Pulley - 5/3/2024

I would like to comment on the Los Padres National Forest grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. Los Padres National forest applications for ground operations and planning show that the forest is committed to hosting responsible OHV recreation and for that they can be applauded. We especially appreciate your planning application to improve staging for us. I was sad to read that you have problems there "and replace existing OHV facilities that have been vandalized, demolished or removed by users." Contact us at CORVA for ideas on how to reduce these problems. Possibly adding additional signs would help and offering a nice spot for a campground host could cut down unwanted behavior. Please keep up the good work spending OHV dollars the way we like. Ed Stovin - 5/5/2024

USFS - Mendocino National Forest

Ohv is a value to everyone willing to participate.. Fund the program Derrick ray - 5/3/2024

Please approve submitted requests for funds. After the previous devastating fires, there are so many trees falling. Trails getting blocked, slides due to burnoff. With the limited staff the forest people cannot keep up. Volunteers have been helping but that is limited. Douglas McCay - 5/4/2024

As a volunteer and recreational user in the Mendocino I fully support the grant for the forest. I wish other National Forests in California had programs like Mendocino that recognize OHV recreation and work to improve it. Bruce Hendrickson - 5/4/2024

USFS - Modoc National Forest

USFS - Plumas National Forest

Hello, as a MTBr, Hiker and OHV user, I support this grant and feel it will positively impact the local economy, increase recreational use and keep the forests viable for future generations to enjoy. I support this grant, thanks Alan Walls Alan Walls - 3/7/2024

USFS - San Bernardino National Forest

I have both cycled and hiked on some of the SBNF trails on San Jacinto and passed plenty of people enjoying all possible varieties of OHV usage. The trails are universally increasingly eroded and rutted. Culverts are becoming blocked or eroded. Signs are missing or down. Signboards are in desperate need of a refresh. Elsewhere, fences and barriers are lacking or in disrepair, and signs prohibiting off-trail access down or missing. Off-trail areas are becoming eroded with unofficial new 'trails' and vegetation damaged. This also leads to off-trail camping etc. In general, existing usage and access is becoming rapidly degraded, while off-trail usage is damaging the NF and increasing the risk of wildfire starts. I fully support this grant application as a matter of increasing urgency for maintaining easy and safe access to the NF and reducing wildfire risk. Andy Ridgwell - 3/12/2024

I would like to comment on the San Bernardino National Forest grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. First, I would like to say this is a big, expensive grant, but one that is important to the many people who use this forest for recreation. I learned something new from reading the application and think it is great. "it is also necessary to conduct mechanized maintenance on a regular basis, and occasionally use skilled professionals to reestablish trail structures and prevent erosion, runoff and soil loss. This level of maintenance is also necessary to periodically restore trails to their intended level of difficulty. By maintaining trails to their intended standard, users are encouraged to remain on designated routes since they are exposed to the trail experience and level of difficulty they anticipate". Keeping the people on the trail by giving them what they want is a great idea and should be part of all applications. You mention the length of greensticker routes, I am interested to know how many miles of street legal dirt roads are in the forest. Keep up the good work! Ed Stovin - 5/3/2024

There is a real need for the Forest service to grade Forest Service Roads in the Angelus Oaks Areas Specifically 1N86. It is great that they were able to grade roads around Lake Arrowhead last yeas. Tropical Story Hillary did a job on these roads and grading them would help the local commerce. Tere Messenger - 5/6/2024

USFS - Sequoia National Forest

My comments/input apply to the requests made for the Kern River Ranger District (KRRD) portion of the SNF’s Grant Request and specifically to the Kern Plateau portion of their request. As a CA Green Sticker vehicle owner/user and a landowner in the northern portion of the Sequoia NF I am supportive of the Sequoia’s OHV Grant request if properly and consistently utilized. Access to this area (northeast portion of the Kern Plateau, Blackrock Station Area) of the OHV Trails and Roads have been inappropriate maintained by the Kern River Ranger District of the Sequoia. Specifically, many of the authorized CA OHV Grant Funds have not been or improper used. We don’t know if this lack of Staff, or to penalize the Property Owner’s, Cattle Permitees, Hunters, Fisherman, Recreationalists, Camper’s using the SNF Roads to access the Monache Meadow Area of the Inyo National Forest or who knows! The Kern River Ranger District has used a good portion of their CA OHV Grant Funds to “block” User created routes. In a real world this would be appropriate, however, had the KRRD fixed the basic problem (which they classified as a “trail”) aka the Monache Jeep Road. It is recommended – That the portion of the CA OHV funds requested by the KRRD be denied and the past “unused” funds be used to correct/fix issues on the Monache Jeep Road (34E38). Dion Salfen - 5/5/2024

USFS - Shasta-Trinity National Forest

I am writing in full support of the Mount Shasta Avalanche Center's (MSAC) grant proposal for OHMVR funding. As an avid backcountry skier and snowmobiler in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, I rely on the information provided by the MSAC on a daily basis. They help keep me, my friends, and other outdoor enthusiasts informed as to current dangers in the snowpack, along with their educational outreach programs which are super helpful in gaining additional knowledge about snowmobiling safety and responsibilities. The work that is done by MSAC thru this grant is truly invaluable as it encourages and educates the public about snow safety, promotes communication between motorized and non-motorized users of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, and creates an informed platform where folks who love the outdoors can come together and share their passions. Let it snow, pbg Peter Burns Grossmann - 3/5/2024

USFS - Sierra National Forest

I am in favor of the Sierra National Forest applying for this grant to construct an Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) staging area on the Red Mountain OHV Area. We, the OHV community, and user groups have requested this for years now. We need OHV support facilities in this very popular area. Forest Service 8S10 is heavily used and leads many popular OHV trails. A staging area will provide a durable location for OHV users to unload and load equipment. The project will consist of building a new OHV staging area with 12 designated parking stalls, signage, a double-vault toilet structure, and installation of seven-day use picnic sites with tables, pedestal grills. This area has no parking and no toilets for the public. This is overdue. This project will alleviate the eyesore, traffic congestion and protect habitat in the immediate area and along the green sticker road to the site. Us OHV Volunteer groups will assist the SNF staff to construct much of the staging area and picnic facilities. We look forward to the approval of this grant to develop site features as described within the SNF project description. Michael McGarity - 4/11/2024

I'm a local user of SNF and observe the need for ground operations to repair, maintain, and upgrade the Forest for Multiple Use. Such maintenance helps to provide a more sustainable forest and enhanced user experience for visitors. The volunteer OHV community stands ready to do our part in maintaining the trail system we enjoy today so we and future users can enjoy it tomorrow, too. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on an important tool for managing the Forest experience. Don Laursen - 4/11/2024

I am in favor and support the Sierra National Forest (SNF) grant application for an OHV Ground Operations project that will include: survey & monitoring, road & trail maintenance, facilities operations & maintenance, & sign installation. I am an Off-roader and volunteer who has enjoyed accessing all the SNF roads and trails for many years. We must keep all OHV opportunities open for public access. Motorized recreational experiences range from challenging rock crawling to dirt roads. Many of us volunteers belong to local Clubs who have the Adopt-A-Trail for nearly 2,024 miles of roads open to all vehicles, including non-highway green/red sticker vehicles, & 209 acres of designated areas open for recreational motor vehicle use or as a staging area for access to dispersed recreation opportunities. We cannot do this work without the support of the OHMVR Grants. We also help with the SNF winter program. There are 72,800 acres open to cross-country travel & 234 miles of snowmobile trails. These winter trails range from easy to most difficult. The public and volunteers access amazing vistas of the San Joaquin Valley, lakes & snowcapped ridges. Please award SNF with this ground operations grant. Michael McGarity - 4/11/2024

I would support the Sierra National Forest in a grant to correct their current MVUM. The Motorized Vehicle Use Map is not accurate. It does not align with the ROD, Record of Decision created through Travel Management. I want to see a major discrepancy corrected which has Rock Creek Road (9S09) with inaccurate season of use dates. The dates are not consistent with the ROD; therefore causing confusion among not just the SNF personnel themselves, but the OHV community. The MVUM season of use dates changed without any public notice. This must be corrected. Thank you. Michael McGarity - 4/11/2024

I am in support for funding the grant for the Red Mountain system in the Side to National Forest.. It would be a huge help with our community and make it more accessible for handicapped and disabled persons like myself. Thank You. Johnathan Black V.P. 559YOTAS Disabled Army Combat Veteran John Black - 4/11/2024

I support this grant application to construct an OHV staging area to alleviate congestion and organize parking in the access area to the Red Mountain Trail System. This is a good plan to protect the area and provide a parking and unloading area enhanced with a pit toilet and day use area. Steve Egbert - 4/15/2024

USFS - Stanislaus National Forest

USFS - Tahoe National Forest

I support the expansion of the china wall area. This will provide greater access and less congestions for the user groups. Alan Alan Walls - 3/7/2024

I support the reroutes for trail 5 and 6. This will help the trail long term. Alan Walls Alan Walls - 3/7/2024

I support this grant for ground operations in the TNF. I do volunteer trail work in the TNF and this helps MTB, Hikers, Moto and many other groups. Thanks, Alan Alan Walls - 3/7/2024

The Tahoe National Forest has a total requested amount of $3,852,155. This is excessive for one agency to be funding this large about when OHV dollars are slim across the state. There should be a cap on the total amount one agency can request. This is a Federal agency getting out state tax dollars to do a federal job. Vickie Sanders - 3/11/2024

To Whom it may Concern Following are my comments and concerns on a grant submitted by Tahoe National Forest for a project they are calling the Rubicon Reroute. As I write these comments, on March 10, 2024, a video has been released by RTF explaining the project. They have also a scheduled questions and answer session on Wednesday March 13, 2024. This does not seem appropriate for your proposed contractor to be having public meetings while the grant is under public comment. Whereas the trail needs improvements I feel you have not fully vetted the project with the public and private property owners, regarding design and the public’s rights. My understanding was that there was going to be a record of decision and did not require a full NEPA document. But I have not seen it. I do not know the details as to how a nonprofit will install a road. From the video the President of RTF states that the Forest Service came to them and said we build dirt roads if you want to build a 4-wheel drive trail you can do it? Seems strange. Sincerely, Vickie Sanders, Retired El Dorado County Parks Manager Project Description: This project had a previous grant for planning with El Dorado County that was not fulfilled. El Dorado County did their best to work with the Forest Service on an agreement. There was once an agreement in place for the Forest Service to do the work and the County to reimburse about $25,000. But this did not happen, and the grant was returned without an expense and unfulfilled. It was never provided to El Dorado County as requested. This was the first piece of the planning process. Where is the environmental document for this project? Where is it documented that the RS2477 will be maintained for the bypasses that will be re-routed around? These areas should not be abandoned or closed. There can be alternates but the original trail should remain. The public should give up no rights to the original trail. If the environmental document is complete where is the trail design? A bypass was installed a few years ago around a wet area that had no design or plan, and it did not hold up. So where is the construction documented for these bypasses. If there is a bottomless arch proposed there must be a design. Why is it not included with a map of the proposed bypasses? In the project description it stated that “the Rubicon Trail evolved through historical use, the route was never designed or engineered to accommodate the thousands of modern off-highway and four-wheel drive vehicles that traverse the trail annually. As a result of the route popularity, trail conditions have deteriorated in some locations. In other locations, erosion and sediment are threatening sensitive ecological resources as a result of the increased vehicle traffic.”. The trail existed before the forest service so yes it has existed because of historical use, it was there before the sensitive ecological resources were identified by the Forest Service. What are you doing to protect the trail and the original route as it was there first? It must be preserved for the use it was intended for, as it was there before the resources were identified. The environmental document should have identified that as a historical use that should be preserved. How is it addressed? List of Project Deliverables Staff: 1. Development Activities: How are you addressing the original trail to preserve the RS 2477 designation? This should not be abandoned and if it needs to be protected this needs to be done before any project is developed further. 2. Where is the NEPA document? 3. A design must have been developed if you are proposing a bottomless arch culvert. Where is the design that is stamped by a Forest Engineer? 4. Again, where is the design? 5. Where are you putting barriers? There must be a design. Are they installed to direct traffic and not to abandon the original trail? 6. Road 03-04 is that Barker Pass Trail? That you will be bringing 10-wheel dump trucks down? How the proposed project relates to OHV Recreation and will add to, enhance or otherwise sustain OHV Recreation? How will it protect OHV recreation? If the trail does not hold up or has any issues the Forest Service will close it or gate it. The public will then have the right to use the original trail, correct? This will protect OHV recreation. Closing the original trail and giving opportunities to the Forest Service for closure will not protect OHV recreation and will create huge traffic issues on the El Dorado side of the trail. Cost estimate: Staff: It appears three Forest Service staff members will be needed to work with volunteers. This seems excessive. It is also confusing because you propose a contract with Rubicon Trail Foundation to install and work with volunteers so are you not paying them to do that? It appears there will be a Program Manager, OHV trail lead, OHV trails co-lead, Trails Program Manager, Road engineer, hydrologist, heritage program manager, public service officer and a District Wildlife Biologist on this project. This appears to have excessive oversite. Whereas I can understand the specialists I would assume they have already been involved in the design? Understanding that they may be needed on site if an issue arises. It sounds like this re-route will be done as they go with no plan in mind? Which it seems like you are putting the cart before the horse so to speak. If you do not have a design that has been engineered and RS2477 in place this project is not ready to move forward. Contracts: What is the bidding process used to select this vendor? Was there a competitive process and how did the vendor meet the qualifications? Just being a 4-wheel drive enthusiast does not provide the requirements to create a new reroute that will sustain OHV use and hold up to the use for years to come. The Tahoe National Forest had issues contracting with El Dorado County, so I am confused as to how you would contract with a non-profit organization that does not have the qualifications to install a road or install a bottomless arch. I am sure they will find contractors who will handle the work but how will that be competitively bid? Soil Conservation: Where is the environmental document? Evaluation Criteria #3. 1. Will the original trail with RS2477be closed? 2. How do you get points for a restroom used by the contractor during the construction? It will not be for the users. 3. Sounds like you are closing the original trail with no guarantee or public rights of way on the bypass therefore how is this preserve the public’s rights of way on this trail? #5. Where is this document located? #8. How will this sustain OHV recreation with the possibility of gates or seasonal closure if the route does not hold up or the Forest Service deems it too wet to pass? #9. Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail is not OHV Recreation? #10. 1. Where was the notice published? There was an email list of private property owners that did not receive notice of this meeting. 2. Did RTF notice that this would be discussed at their regular meeting? They are not a stakeholder they are a vendor as you are proposing to contract with them. How can you plan a project then be the contractor and make money on the project? 3. FOTR and RTF are one in the same. They have the same website, FOTR reports monthly to RTF and FOTR takes direction from RTF. They are the same. The volunteer group FOTR just has a different acronym. 11. RTF & FOTR are the same organization. They can’t be partnering organizations and a paid contractor on this grant. There is no separation here. You can’t be everything. 13. Traffic-Rubicon is important and has nothing to do with Fordyce. Both trails are important on their own. Wildlife- It states that this project will “remove a 200-foot flooded section of the trail” this is closing the original trail with the RS2477 rights. Vickie Sanders - 3/11/2024

Dear CA State Parks, I would like to make a public comment about the grant application from the USFS Tahoe National Forest / Rubicon Reroute grant request. Mark A. Smith Off-Roading, Inc. / Jeep Jamboree USA categorically disapproves of the application for grant by the USFS Tahoe National Forest request for funding to create a reroute of the Rubicon Trail. We ask that you decline to fund any grant request that would support a reroute of the Rubicon Trail. Our reasons for this request are as follows:
• The USFS Tahoe National Forest / Rubicon Trail Foundation have not made any of their closed meeting’s public until very recently.
• The reroute has the potential of removing the Rubicon Trail’s RS-2477 designation.
• This reroute will put Tahoe National Forest in control over this section of the trail (according to TNF).
• Placer County, which has jurisdictional authority over this section of the Rubicon Trail has NOT formally abandoned their rights to the trail. They have been left out of the discussion from USFS Tahoe National Forest & Rubicon Trail Foundation.
• The USFS Tahoe National Forest is operating as they have sole discretion over what happens over this section of the trail – this is NOT true.
• None of the property owners who own utilize the trail on the Placer County side as our primary access route have been consulted or informed of this reroute. This will have serious private property rights violations.
• There is NO imminent threat to this section of the trail collapsing or causing safety concerns for users of the Rubicon Trail.
Sincerely, Pearse Umlauf Jeep Jamboree USA Mark A. Smith Off-Roading, Inc. Pearse Umlauf - 3/17/2024

The Rubicon Trail Foundation (RTF)is a 501{c} 3 educational charity whose mission is to enhance the future health and use of the Rubicon Trail while ensuring responsible year around trail access. We are pleased to participate in the execution and funding of this grant. We have worked extensively with the Tahoe National Forest to plan and execute the project. We believe the project will make the Rubicon Trail more secure and will add value and recreational opportunities. Motorized recreation on the trail has been occurring since the early 1900’s, so planning efforts during construction of the trail have been minimal. This is an opportunity to plan and execute a portion of the trail that will be environmentally sound, long lasting, and provide OHV opportunity and challenge while encouraging all users to enjoy the trail and its surroundings. At the same time it will secure a portion of trail that is currently at risk of collapse. We are in support of this grant. Ken Hower President Rubicon Trail Foundation Ken Hower - 4/13/2024

Please keep this simple. The easiest solution is to shore up the existing trail section with more rock. Kevin Wagner - 4/28/2024

I have two concerns with the grant application by the Tahoe National Forest to construct two bypasses along the Rubicon Trail. Although I support the main idea of a bypass around the shelf road, I worry about the original trail and the second bypass. My first concern is regarding the original route of the Rubicon Trail. I would like to see documentation that would continue the use of the original route for as long as possible. I would like to see maintenance and maybe a little repair work done on the original route as I believe that it can remain in service, and safe for use, for years if not decades. My second concern is about the second, smaller bypass. This section of trail has been worked by Placer County and Friends of the Rubicon (FOTR). Although this section does see seasonal standing water (I would not use the word flooding.), erosion is minimal due to the hardening of the trail with yards and yards of rock, placed by volunteers and paid contractors, over the years. A bypass in this location would be intrusive into the forest and an unnecessary cost, burdened by our OHV funds. Let’s bring in more rock, as needed, and skip the bypass. Doug Barr – www.TheOtherRubicon.com Doug Barr - 4/29/2024

Mark and Maria Barnes Rubicon Soda Springs, Inc. April 30, 2024 To Whom It May Concern- These comments and questions concern the proposed Tahoe National Forest grant for the re-route of the McKinney Rubicon Trail. We are property owners/shareholders on the McKinney Rubicon Trail, namely, Rubicon Soda Springs, Inc. Addressing the Evaluation Criteria Question 5: To our knowledge no one from Rubicon Soda Springs, Inc. was notified of the ‘McKinney Rubicon Trail Reroute and Restoration Decision Memo, 08/02/2023.’ We found out about this quite accidentally. How can Tahoe National Forest claim credit for announcing an adopted plan or environmental document that was never brought to the notice of known property owners? We are also supposed to be able to see the NEPA document. Where is that? After traversing the Rubicon Trail since the late 90’s, we have observed great negligence in the maintaining of the Rubicon Trail on the Placer County side. From time to time a few things were done, but nothing even close to what was needed. We believe if the trail had been maintained over the years with proper water bars, drainage and rock installation, we would not be facing these problems now. So, the question now is, why does the Tahoe National Forest and Rubicon Trail Foundation suddenly have this great emergency for 2 bypasses, when the first geological study was done in 2017? We believe another grant Eldorado County applied for was lost because of non-cooperation from Tahoe National Forest and The Rubicon Trail Foundation. Makes you wonder why. We did attend the March 13, 2024, question and answer session put on by Rubicon Trail Foundation. We discovered the Tahoe National Forest had ‘Partnered’ with Rubicon Trail Foundation, a normal practice we were assured by Joe Chavez from Tahoe National Forest. This eliminates the bidding process that the rest of us must live by. We believe it is very interesting that Joe Chavez from the Tahoe National Forest, John Arnez from Rubicon Trail Foundation and Mike Barr, the contractor who will be performing the work, are all longtime friends and associates. One of the most important issues, that has not been addressed anywhere that we can find is the guarantee that the RS2477 designation will transfer over to the new bypasses. Without this guarantee in writing before the project starts, the project should not go forward. Unfortunately, the government cannot be trusted on their word alone. Just ask someone from the Auburn Jeep Club about how access to their property along the trail is going. In looking over the Project Cost Estimate, it seems quite top heavy on the managerial area. It states the need for: 1. Program Manager 2. OHV Trails Lead (2 & 3 have the same job description. Why do you need 1 program manager and basically 2 assistants for a ¾ of a mile and a 200-yard bypass?) 3. OHV Trails Co-Lead 4. Trail Program Manager 5. Road Engineer (For Barker Pass?) Under ‘Contracts’ there is no itemized list of what the actual cost is of what you’re describing you will do. Also, there is a ‘0’ for materials and supplies. Where is the actual contract? Shouldn’t it be available for public review before the grant application is submitted? Evaluation Criteria, Q 3. What wetlands are you referring to? Are you talking about an area along the trail that badly needed water bars and proper drainage and was neglected to the point it turned into a deep mud hole? It is our understanding that John Arnes from Rubicon Trail Foundation and Joe Chavez from Tahoe National Forest placed a bypass around this area. We do not believe the public was informed about the decision to put in a bypass instead of fixing the cause of the mudhole. The bypass just appeared one day and access to the original trail was blocked with the beautiful healthy trees that were cut down to make way for the bypass. If it were not for the public pitching rocks into the large holes that have developed in said bypass and removing a stump that caused rigs to roll over, this bypass would have failed completely. Now, these two people are asking us to trust them to build 2 more bypasses, with the understanding that Mr. Arnez will be paid a ‘Consultant Fee’ for the project and Tahoe National Forest’s Joe Chavez also overseeing it? Are you planning on closing the original trail? What happens to the trail if your new bypass fails, and you have closed the original trail, and we don’t have an RS2477 designation for the new bypass? The original trail has historical value and should not be abandoned. Also, will there still be access to Miller Lake? Evaluation Criteria, Q 8. This would be a great place to bring up the RS2477 designation, so the public has guaranteed access and Tahoe National Forest can’t close it down. Evaluation Criteria, Q 9. Under ‘Hiking’ you mention access to the Pacific Crest Trail. That is an interesting observation since the Pacific Crest Trail crosses the Rubicon Trail and is independent from the Rubicon Trail, The Pacific Crest Trail does not need the Rubicon Trail to exist. Not sure what point you are trying to make here. Evaluation Criteria, Q 11. Partnerships. 4 or more organizations are being claimed. Rubicon Trail Foundation and Friends of the Rubicon, to our knowledge are the same entity. Rubicon Trail foundation is also receiving money from the grant, as it seems, volunteers will also receive money from the grant. How can you count one organization as 2 organizations and also be paid from the grant when the criteria state you cannot do that? We are not against the bypasses; we just believe there needs to be more transparency with access to the contract between Rubicon Trail Foundation and their chosen contractor and a written guarantee the new bypasses will have the RS2477 designation to protect the trail from closure. We also believe the old part of the trail should not be abandoned. We believe Tahoe National Forest and Rubicon Trail Foundation need to step back and take a little more time to do this correctly. Sincerely, Mark and Maria Barnes Maria Barnes - 4/30/2024

I am in favor of the large reroute if the identity of the trail is maintained. The existing route should remain open until it becomes unpassable. The other area should (the wet area) should be handled similar the other wet areas of the trail. Improved drainage, Gravel, etc. There is little need to reroute through this area. Thank you for your consideration Drew Becker Long time Rubicon Trail User Drew Becker - 4/30/2024

I fully support the Fordyce Cultural Study grant submitted by the Tahoe National Forest. This study is designed to seek historical evidence of activities that took place in and around the Fordyce Trail, but isn't designed to threaten, harm or stop travel on the trail. This represents a significant change from the majority of historical analyses we have seen take place in areas that hos motorized recreation. Too often, evidence of historical use has been employed as an excuse to close trail or curtail their use by the motorized recreation community. The Tahoe National Forest is proposing to look at historical studies from a different viewpoint, which can prove to be a model how best to protect cultural resources while still allowing historical motorized use to continue. Amy Granat - 5/2/2024

I fully support this grant request for the Washington OHV Staging Area. The Tahoe National Forest participated in a collaborative that included local residents, law enforcement and OHV groups and organizations to determine how best to allow for safe OHV travel near the town of Washington. This grant represents one of the phases for the remedies reached by the collaborative group. OHV recreation if very popular in and around the small towns bordering the Tahoe National Forest. This motorized tourism also provides an economic benefit to the small towns. But this access has to be balanced with the needs and safety of local residents. This grant request is an important step to achieving the collaborative's goals. Amy Granat - 5/2/2024

I have been involved with the proposed Rubicon Reroute planning and fully support this grant. Anytime a change in the route of the Rubicon Trail is considered, the change has to be supported by significant evidence that it is needed. The Tahoe National Forest and Joe Chavez have put in a considerable amount of effort to make that determination, consulting numerous experts as necessary. We would like to request that some area of the original trail, once the reroute has been completed, remain open for motorized use. It is unfair and somewhat inappropriate that the mountain bike and hiking community will benefit by the reoute, but motorized vehicles lose all access to this historically significant portion of the trail. It should be noted that considerable outreach has been done by the forest to the off-road community to explain the reroute, which is much appreciated. Amy Granat - 5/2/2024

Jeepers Jamboree & Jeep® Jamboree, Inc. is considered the oldest, toughest, and largest organized event of its type in the world. Its conception in 1952 was to promote an increase in the economy for the Georgetown Divide Community, which has led to over 70 years of successful off road adventures over the Rubicon Trail. Jeepers Jamboree strives to educate and enforce the Tread Lightly principals while recreating. Before and after all trips, Jeepers Jamboree has a dedicated crew for clean-up. Jeepers Jamboree requires all participants to stay on the 17 mile route of the Rubicon Trail. Our trips educate and promote participants to follow trail etiquette and the “pack it in, pack it out” philosophy. The importance of protecting the environment is contagious and you’ll find participants going out of their way to follow and respect the rules. Jeepers Jamboree emphasizes the protection and appreciation for the environment. In 1990, Jeepers Jamboree was recognized for its commitment to protecting the environment. El County County and the Board of Supervisors recognized Jeepers Jamboree in 2004 for our service, commitment, and dedication to the Rubicon Trail. Jeepers Jamboree has also been awarded with a Certificate of Appreciation for being a founding member of Tread Lightly. From the beginning, Jeepers Jamboree has been committed to the Tread Lightly! campaign to keep trails open for years to come. Jeepers Jamboree have been stewards of the Rubicon Trail for over 70 years. Jeepers Jamboree takes pride in maintaining and repairing the trail to preserve it for future generations to enjoy. In the last 10 years alone, we have invested over $166,000 and countless hours of manual labor. Tahoe National Forest will work with Placer County if they are interested in having jurisdiction/managing the Rubicon Trail through the Tahoe National Forest, including the new reroute section. Jeepers Jamboree encourages Tahoe National Forest and Placer County to contact each other to discuss a mutual agreement. Jeepers Jamboree is in favor of the reroute if Placer County and the Tahoe National Forest work together for an easement agreement. Here is Jeepers Jamboree comments regarding the grant. • Regarding the evaluation criteria Item #3 Restrict Public Vehicular access in riparian/wetland areas - Jeepers Jamboree would encourage the existing historical route being accessible to motorized vehicles during the dry months. Implementing water flow restrictions as in place by El Dorado County. • Regarding the evaluation criteria Item #8 Sustain existing OHV Recreation - Jeepers Jamboree agrees as long as the re-route sustains year round use of the Rubicon Trail for public access. Jeepers Jamboree appreciates the time taken to review our comments, and recognize our tradition on the Rubicon Trail. Sincerely, Jeepers Jamboree & Jeep® Jamboree, Inc. Board of Directors Jeepers Jamboree & Jeep Jamboree Inc> - 5/3/2024

RE: Grant Comments Rubicon Soda Springs, Inc. Project concerns and overview: As legal property owners located very close to this project, that use this historical route for access and as trail advocates, we have the following concerns. The need for work in this area is not in dispute but the importance for every detail to be covered cannot and should not be understated or overlooked. It is of our opinion that too many questions and lack of guarantees for access, property owners and the trail as a whole exist, in its current form. This grant application and planning has been rushed with poor communication to say the least. Rubicon historically has been protected by RS2477 rights inclusive of the Placer County section, this can be argued with the use of historical data i.e., County lines moving in 1913. This re route will completely negate that protection with no guarantees of RS2477 carrying over to the re route. Ultimately putting the USFS in complete control of this section and losing all protections against closure. As property owners affected by something of this magnitude it is astounding that we were not included in any and all communications in this regard. At no point were we approached by the USFS and or the Vendors involved in this project. Complete disregard of any relationship, stewardship or trust. This project, grant and re route have the very possible likelihood of limiting access, seasonal trail closures and bringing this trail section under the USFS travel management plan completely opposite of the statement within the grant “Will add to, enhance, or otherwise sustain recreation”. We have attended various meetings after this situation was finally brought to light and at no point in those meetings were any of our concerns addressed or put to rest. If anything, only adding more questions and concerns for not only ourselves as property owners in the area but also concerns for the trail, it’s community and preservation of its historical use. List of project items: Staff: 1: Development items: As mentioned above there is no mechanism in place to preserve RS2477 rights/Public right of way/designation. It is of upmost importance that this not be abandoned. This needs to be in place before anything moves forward. 2: Documentation for NEPA? Where is it, this must be public. 3: Where is the design? Where is the stamp from an official Forest Engineer? 4: Design? 5: Barrier placement? Where? To abandon original trail? This is not clear. 6: Road 03-04 Barker Pass Trail? 10 wheel dump trucks on this road? How the proposed project relates to OHV Recreation and will add to, enhance or otherwise sustain Recreation? This project in its current form does nothing to add to, enhance or sustain OHV recreation. This action will put the trail in 100% USFS jurisdiction, opening the door to travel management, seasonal closure, and the possibility of the re route failing if not engineered correctly. In addition, in its current form the original trail will be abandoned and closed, losing any and all arguable RS2477 rights. Such potential closures would make Rubicon a one way trail causing intense traffic issues and over use of the trail as a whole. Cost estimates: Staff/Personnel: Three Forest Service employees to work with volunteers? Excessive to say the least. Rubicon Trail Foundation is listed as a paid contractor but also listed as volunteers? This seems to be a double dip of sorts. Ten leads/mangers listed? Again excessive. Or is this due to lack of planning and design? It would appear from this action that the development will be engineered on the fly. Again, suggesting complete disregard for the sustainability of this proposed trail re route. This type of approach will insure its ultimate failure. This project is not ready to move ahead. Contracts: Vendor selection and qualifications? Where is the bidding process? How was the vendor vetted? We are 4-wheel drive advocates also but that in no way qualifies us to build a road in the Forest that can be sustained or meet government specs for generations to come. As we understand it, this grant was initially proposed by El Dorado County but the Tahoe Forest Service did not take the opportunity to work with the county and it was put to the way side. Why did the Tahoe Forest Service not re visit with El Dorado County but instead decided to work with a Non Profit that is not qualified and or certified to perform a task of this magnitude? This makes no sense at all especially given the success of the Eldorado County side of the trail. A failure of the proposed road puts the Rubicon as a whole in jeopardy, inclusive of access to our property. Soil Conservation: Where is the required documentation? Evaluation Criteria: #3: 1: It states in grant original trail will be rehabilitated. Is this closed? Is this abandoned losing RS2477 rights? 2. Points for providing a restroom used by contractor? This is in no way benefitting the public trail user. 3. You are closing original trail; this does not benefit or preserve the public’s right of way at all. In fact, quite the opposite, it opens the door to potential closures. #5. Where is the documentation for the public to see? #8. If this re route construction fails or becomes victim to seasonal closures, how does this sustain or benefit OHV recreation? #9. Hiking the PCT is in no way related to OHV. #10. 1. Public notice of meeting, where is the documentation of this announcement? There is an existing email list of property owners including ourselves and we did not receive any notification of this meeting. 2. Rubicon Trail Foundation. Stakeholder, Contractor and paid vendor? They cannot be all three. 3. Rubicon Trail Foundation lists themselves on their website as the money raising arm of FOTR. They are clearly one in the same entity but you list them as separate organizations to gain points. 11. Rubicon Trail Foundation and Friends of The Rubicon are one in the same. 13. Rubicon stands alone, this grant has nothing to do with Fordyce trail. Fordyce trail is important in and of itself. In Closing: As stated above, the need for trail work in this area is not in question and needs to be addressed but too many questions and risks to not only ourselves as local property owners but also every trail user now and for generations to come exist in this proposed grant as it sits today. The risk of losing our RS2477 rights is a very real concern, to that point we have heard in many meetings that repairing the existing road would be too expensive but yet have seen no investigation into this possibility. No legitimate estimates or even involved discussion, just opinions and words. This is no way to move forward in a thorough manner with the vision of preserving the trail to all users now and in the future. This again displays the rushed inefficient manner in which this grant and project has been pushed forward. We are not in favor of this grant in its present form. We have historically worked with all agencies in cooperation for the future of the trail and its access and will continue to do so. We thank you for your time. Respectfully, Christian Prince, President RSSI Rubicon Soda Springs, Inc. Christian Prince RSSI President - 5/3/2024

I am a regular trail user and have also volunteered extensively on the trail. I am also a general contractor (I own and operate All Coast Builders) and have worked with the Rubicon Trail Foundation on several projects on the trail. I am excited to see this project moving forward. It seems important for the re-route to happen to ensure that the trail stays open. It also appears that the Tahoe National Forest has put a lot of thought into planning and transparency, and have chosen a good partner in the foundation. I am very much in favor of this project. Edio Delfino - 5/4/2024

RE: Grant Comments Tim Green Property owner, trail advocate and volunteer. May 3rd 2024 Project concerns RE: Grant Application Rubicon Trail Re Route Trail repairs, Maintenance, and ground work are nothing new to Rubicon and historically are ongoing as the trail changes and evolves throughout the seasons, years and even decades. Through these changes and in more recent times the need to protect Rubicon and its historical use have become ever so clear and while these changes are sometimes necessary the importance of protecting access while conducting such projects should be kept clearly in focus. Without such due diligence, the trail and its future access are in very real jeopardy. The proposed grant as written does nothing to protect the public’s right of way or maintain any historical RS2477 rights that are currently in place for Rubicon. In fact, the polar opposite applies. I am of the opinion this grant as written was rushed/pushed forward with a deplorable lack of communication and complete disregard for not only property owners within Rubicon but also the trail users and community as whole. It is clear from recent meetings brought forth by the community after discovery, that any and all RS2477 rights will not transfer or apply to the re route in question and will without doubt put the USFS in 100% control and jurisdiction of this section of trail. There will be no arguable case against USFS seasonal closures, travel management plan or the like. This is in no way beneficial to Rubicon and or it’s users. I personally feel this is nothing more than a power grab by the Tahoe National Forest to gain control over a section of Rubicon that will garner the ability to further limit access under the guise of working with the OHV community. We need look no further than a few miles down the road to see the result of such a situation. That being Barrett Lake Jeep trail that in recent years has seen millions of dollars spent in bridge building and re routes. While some may tout this situation as “Working with” the OHV community the results speak for themselves clearly. Barrett lake Jeep trail has fallen victim to excessive closures and control by the USFS. With the announcement just last week that the trail will be lucky to be open by early August, the resulting effect being a trail that is open for 90 days out of the year at best. I’m sorry to say that promises and handshakes from the “Trails/recreation Specialist, USFS” for this project carry no weight at all when we look back to prior promises from such folks. Property owners, trail users, community and OHV as whole have seen nothing but access losses due to such “Relationships and trust”. Rubicon is now and always just one bad decision or empty promise away from closure and this proposed grant and re route as currently written put us that much closer to losing it all. Having worked on Rubicon and been involved in some very in depth volunteer projects over the past 29 years, it is clear to me without question, the need for EVERY t to be crossed and I dotted when undertaking a project such as this. It is painfully apparent when looking at the points system for this grant application that such due diligence has been completely ignored and circumvented. Our trail is under a continual microscope, with any and all projects needing to be done with complete attention to detail given the level of Government oversight. Being an “OHV Enthusiast” in this situation in no way qualifies or guarantees any success or protections for the trail. Neither does it qualify one to complete the work. We no longer enjoy the days of putting in a trail and just using it. Any work has to follow and satisfy the overzealous Government need for detail. Anything put forward without this understanding of the system is doomed to fail and be used against us. While volunteer efforts are admirable in many aspects, a project of this magnitude moves to the next level of detail. Without it, I point no further than the aforementioned Barrett Lake Jeep trail and its, for all intense and purposes, closure! Re Routes; In many cases re routes either fail or result in losses to the trail user. Again, I mention Barrett Lake and also the re route many years back at the pleasant lake area of Rubicon which resulted in a property owner losing their easement rights even though promises we’re made by the USFS personnel at the time. In this regard, questions have been asked about repairing the existing trail to which we have been informed that it was not cost effective. A blank statement with zero documentation to follow it up or substantiate. With the risk to the public of losing any and all protections if the existing trail is moved and abandoned, it is clear that researching and documenting the possible repair of the original trail is absolutely worthy of complete and written documentation which does not exist and has not been researched. In my mind, absolute negligence of the duty to serve the publics best interests. To summarize: Most folks would agree that work needs to be done in the area of concern and as always, the community of Rubicon, property owners, trail users, and volunteers stand ready and willing to help BUT in its current form the Grant app does nothing to protect the precious little we have left in the way of protections for the trail and it’s future. I am of the opinion that if completed as written we will see gates, seasonal closures and travel management plan inclusion within a short few years. Bottom Line: This grant application and project are far from complete and are hap hazard, and un professional at best and should be revisited once re worked in the manner befitting the crown jewel that is the Rubicon Trail. This should be County level jurisdiction and should be treated as such. As discussed in recent meetings and agreed upon by many, Placer County needs to take control and ownership of the trail and any subsequent re route, then request easement from USFS and work with Eldorado County under the already agreed upon MOU for any and all trail repairs, maintenance and projects. There is zero need for any extension of the USFS reach into the little we have left as OHV enthusiasts. As written, I am firmly against this proposed grant until such time it is re written with protections for the publics continued access. Respectfully, Tim Green. Property Owner, Trail user, Advocate and Volunteer. Tim Green - 5/4/2024

I am a long time user of the Rubicon Trail and have generational history on the trail that dates back to 1887. Also, my occupation as a road builder exceeds forty years. I would like to submit comments for the grant application from the USFS Tahoe National Forest/Rubicon Reroute. Below are my concerns regarding this project: •Losing the RS-2477 history and public access to the trail •Where can the public view the design/plan? •Where is the documented evidence that this 6000 year old slide is now suddenly a hazard and unrepairable? •Why is an unmaintained mud hole being referred to as a wetlands? •I’ve been involved with many work parties on the Rubicon Trail, hardening wet areas, stabilizing, and rebuilding slopes; all staying within the RS-2477 easement. Why are we not looking into repairs of the existing road versus rerouting through undisturbed forest? •The parties involved are not road builders, but are users and government agents directing work •Why did this not go out to public bid? When going out to public bid, it holds contractors to specific standards and liability protections, especially with public money. •Why is a director of a 5013c being paid? •Why does it seem as if the parties involved have worked somewhat behind the scenes to take care of this without public knowledge until late in the game, especially since El Dorado County received a previous grant and these parties did not support it at the time? •I am opposed to man made obstacles being built on the reroute; the Rubicon Trail is not an OHV park •A grant for reroute of this nature should address sanitation and water runoff, as history will show there have been repercussions in the past I am speaking as a user, but I am also an owner in Jeepers Jamboree and Jeep® Jamboree Inc, and I support my company’s comments agreeing to the reroute, IF, Placer County can uphold an easement of the reroute and some of these comments can be addressed. Thank you, James (Bob) R. Sweeney Jr. I James (Bob) R. Sweeney Jr - 5/4/2024

I have been a trail user of the Rubicon since I was a child. In addition, I have been a volunteer on many Rubicon projects that were done to keep the trail open forever. Many of those FOTR projects were funded by the Rubicon Trail Foundation , all in the name of keeping the trail open. This reroute is required to keep the Rubicon Trail open. If a state Geologist says the trail is in jeopardy, then it's in jeopardy and we need to do whatever is necessary to mitigate the problem. I've watched videos regarding, and attended meetings and it's amazing that Tahoe National Forest has partnered with RTF to make a reroute trail that us wheelers would want, and not just a dirt road. I fully support this project. This is what grant dollars are intended to do. Keep trails open. jack whelen - 5/4/2024

While the Rubicon Reroute Project Description states that “All resource and cultural concerns were avoided” without further documentation this statement does not seem complete as the Rubicon Trial is a Historic Cultural Resource, and it will be impacted. Under Evaluation Criteria Q2-C they score the project with 10 points because there are “NO Cultural Resources.” This completely ignores the impact on the historic Rubicon Trail. In the 2012 report produced for Eldorado National Forest titled National Register of Historic Places Evaluation For the Rubicon Trail, Eldorado National Forest, El Dorado County, California the trail from the 1850s to the present was found to Eligible for listing on National Register of Historic Places under various time periods, Criterion and types of Significance. While this report was limited to Eldorado County it is not acceptable to claim that the trail stops being a Culture Resource when it crosses into Placer County/Tahoe National Forest without further explanation. Also the historic Pacific Crest Trail (over 50 years old and a National Scenic Trail) is well within 50 feet of a portion of the proposed re-route and is not included as a Cultural Resource. Also, we are left to assume without documentation that the proposed project has had consultations with the appropriate Native American groups to determine impact to potential native American sites and addressed their culture concerns with the proposed re-route and construction impact zone. This important trade and travel route was used by the Maidu, Miwok, Washoe, and other groups for at lease 6,000 years. This trade route is known by the Wahoe’s as the Sunset Trail. Another issue that affects the impact on Cultural Resources and not stated in the documentation that has been provided is the size/width of the project work zone and the size and location of the staging area. Stated that the re-route is to be 8 to 12 feet wide does not address the impact of the work zone on Cultural Resources. In addition, the impact of the trucks and other construction equipment on sections of the Rubicon Trail, Baker Pass road and the Pacific Crest Trail should be addressed. Rick Morris, author, "Rubicon Springs and the Rubicon Trail: a history." also share holder in Rubicon Soda Springs Inc Rick Morris - 5/4/2024

I support the reroute of the Rubicon trail. As a long time off road enthusiast & user of the trail I want to preserve the use of trail for many generations to come, will do what’s needed to keep trail open for all to enjoy. I’m here to represent my group of friends as well as the general public that enjoys use and technical challenges of this trail. I’m also a steward of this beautiful land and will continue to care for it as well as advocate the preservation of the Rubicon Trail. Sincerely, Gabe Pack Rubicon Reroute - 5/4/2024

May 3,2024 Grant comments re: Rubicon Reroute The proposed grant for reroute of the Rubicon Trail leaves many questions unanswered and need for clarity. Furthermore, the Decision Memo and map (undated) was not included with the grant to inform the public with its findings and outcomes. It was obtained through community member not Forest Service. Further concerns are below. *Approximately 5 miles of Rubicon trail on Placer County side is to be maintained by the USFS/Placer County. The area of concern was not maintained properly by either agency so now a reroute is suggested. *No documentation pertaining to repairing trail in current location vs. cutting through untouched forest to fix an ignored problem. *Modifying 03-04 road so they are navigable by 10 wheel dump trucks. Where is the calculation for cost? And what modifications will be done? *Clarity of the proposed route needs to be made. Where is the design? * ”If this project is not completed, the connectivity of the Rubicon Trail will be severely impacted forcing visitors to converge on the Fordyce Trail. Concentrating all the visitors to the Fordyce will increase the user impacts and reduce the overall experience due to overcrowding”. -This statement is assuming that all trail traffic will be moved to Fordyce. -The subject matter should be kept to the Rubicon Trail. *No one stated the area in question doesn’t need repair and attention, however Project Cost Estimates raise concerns and taxpayers need to be aware of where their dollars are going. -Many positions listed seem repetitive in nature and some contradict Decision Memo for example: Heritage Program manager is needed to monitor new trail construction when adjacent to documented cultural sites. In the Decision Memo it states there aren’t any cultural sites identified. -Volunteers are receiving 11,196 dollars and matched by 11,196 dollars. Rubicon Trail volunteers are now paid positions? Since when? -Volunteers- under this section it states, “retaining wall construction.” Are there engineer plans for a retaining wall? Has it gone out for bid? -Wild life biologist “will survey reroute location before implementation to ensure no new wildlife nests have moved into the area. If new nesting sites are discovered, the wildlife biologist would determine appropriate mitigation measures”. Decision Memo stated there weren’t any concerns however grant requesting funds. Would those mitigation measures include closure? Monetary? Another reroute? *Contracts- - Unfortunately RTF has a code compliance case open and unresolved in El Dorado County re: RTF property. How can trust be established for RTF to have complete control over this project if they cannot manage their own property? If this proceeds a third party should be involved to allocate funds, and project job should go to bid. There are many parties that can work together inclusive of RTF choice of contractor. RTF board member mentioned in a meeting recently that “play areas” would be created. Where are those located? Who is involved with planning? These areas are not indicated on Map. Who will maintain “play areas”? Are these “play areas” part of the reroute? This is not indicated in the grant. -Is the Rubicon Trail Foundation volunteers? Vendor? Employee? Stakeholder? Please be specific. -FOTR and Rubicon Trail Foundation are one in the same. They always have been the same. Like all businesses have different departments, FOTR is managed and funded by RTF. -RTF allegedly received cease and desist letter from El Dorado County for overstepping authority on bathroom project. Proceeded on project without going thru due process with Forest Service and El Dorado County. Due to these prior issues there needs to be oversight and accountability for a reroute of this magnitude and cost. *Indirect Costs -Support and Managing OHV grant project. 27,800 dollars listed with no detail. It states examples such as utility cost, contract administration, personnel, telephone, etc. This is not specific. *Soil conservation- Has this been completed? Cannot state that new route won’t cause same issue as existing trail. -Where is documentation stating existing road cannot be fixed and beyond repair? Estimate of cost to repair existing road? Was an engineer or qualified personnel involved? *Evaluation Criteria -Was this area classified as a wetland? When? - special species habitat conflict- States no issue however asking for funding. -cultural resource- States no but requested funds for Heritage resource. -Publicly reviewed plan- Not communicated effectively for members of the public, trail users, property owners to be involved/informed. -Sustain existing recreation- “threat of closure due to landslide”. Did county engineer observe and document findings to state whether or not the area could be repaired? -Public Input- states “multiple stakeholders” separate from their general public meeting. The address stated is where RTF general meetings are held. Multiple stakeholders not present. States FOTR conducts annual maintenance on the Rubicon Trail and monitors conditions that are reported to the TNF. Where is that documentation? -RTF cannot be vendor, volunteer, paid employee, stakeholder and partner at the same time. Conflict. *Do individuals in RTF benefit monetarily from this project as stated by community member? *Offsite impact - “Prevent the displacement of traffic onto the Fordyce Jeep Trail.” This is an assumption with no proven documentation MAP- Map figure 1 McKinney Rubicon Trail Reroute and Restoration Project. To the right of the map there is a section between Rubicon Trail and Proposed route approx 0.15 miles according to your legend that isn’t designated anything other than a dirt road. -This is significant due to not being on trail or reroute and could be a potential closure point for the Forest Service. No protection for trail users against trail closure. *Why RS2477 rights NOT requested for the reroute? *RTF president and vice president have proceeded in planning with Mr. Chavez without any input from their own board. It appears the board members only became aware of this in March when they announced it at their yearly event. I find this non-communicative stance does not make it a true RTF effort. This was done on the “backside” and came as a surprise for many. *When member of public brought up a circulating email concerning Sierra Club involvement with trail inspection at an informational meeting, signed by RTF board member, the president of RTF requested email. Public member wasn’t notified until after meeting that names were to be protected out of possible retribution. When public member notified RTF president re: concern and that email has gone up the food chain so to speak for further investigation, the response of RTF president was to go on You Tube (RTF channel) and make claims of “fake news.” So are we to expect that when questions are raised with concerns re: reroute or anything Rubicon related to RTF we can expect a smear response on you tube? Very concerning and raises ethical questions within RTF non profit status. It is unfortunate that in recent meeting Mr. Chavez was heard stating that “people don’t usually read those things” when referring to grant. It was very disconcerting and wish for better in the future. It would be beneficial for all if Placer County and El Dorado County can work together while obtaining easement from Forest Service to formulate a solid plan for maintenance or reroute in the future with correct information, proposed planning and documentation relayed to property owners, users, and public so this can be a true community partnership for the future of the Rubicon Trail. Sincerely, Heidi Green Heidi Green - 5/5/2024

I have been a Rubicon Trail user since 2007 with a group of friends as a annual trip and I am Supporter of the Rubicon Trail Foundation. So if rerouting the trail is necessary to keep the trail open I and my fellow trail user would be in favor of it if it will keep the trail open so if the State Geologist says trail is in Jeopardy then it needs to be done. Bill Perreault - 5/5/2024

The Sierra Snowmobile Foundation (SSF) is a 501c3 non-profit formed in 2018 specifically to focus the interests of the snowmobiling community on the Travel Management Subpart C planning underway in Region 5 as part of a settlement agreement following litigation from anti-snowmobile groups. We have been intimately involved with, and maintain legal standing on the Tahoe National Forest OSV Travel Management Project. These comments are submitted on behalf of the SSF. On Friday, May 3rd, the Tahoe National Forest released their Final Decision and EIS for Over Snow Vehicle use. It includes significant closures, many of which are in opposition to the recommendations made by the public during the preceding NEPA process. Education and enforcement of these closures will cost the TNF – money that directly or indirectly will come from their proposed grant applications with CA OHV. Particularly concerning are the complex network of closures and crossings associated with the Pacific Crest Trail, and several other closures justified only by a pressing need to close something in order to give the appearance of doing their jobs. The National Trails System Act, which established the Pacific Crest Trail, forbids motorized use along the trail, but not immediately adjacent to it or crossing it. If fact, quite the opposite was written in SEC 7(a) and (j): SEC. 7. [16USC1246](a)(2): Development and management of each segment of the National Trails System shall be designed to harmonize with and complement any established multiple-use plans for the specific area in order to insure continued maximum benefits from the land. This gives priority firstly to adjacent multiple-use plans, then secondly to the trail. SEC. 7. [16USC1246](j) Potential trail uses allowed on designated components of the national trails system may include, but are not limited to, the following: bicycling, cross-country skiing, day hiking, equestrian activities, jogging or similar fitness activities, trail biking, overnight and long-distance backpacking, snowmobiling, and surface water and underwater activities. Yet the Tahoe National Forest created a complex, non-motorized “buffer” of snowmobile closures adjacent to the Pacific Crest Trail – lands that were previously open to snowmobile use This was well-established multiple-use. Because these closures are in direct opposition to the reality of winter snowmobiling on a landscape shaped by snow and wind, and are not legally justified, the Sierra Snowmobile Foundation objects to the awarding of Tahoe National Forest’s grant proposals G24-02-20-G01 and G24-02-20-S01. Each contain provisions for OSV education and enforcement on a plan released on a Friday afternoon, at the beginning of summer, 3 days before comments are due with the state. Specific to grant proposal G24-02-20-G01, the Sierra Snowmobile Foundation objects to all costs, direct or indirect, associated with Project Deliverable 4970.10.1(d)(2)(A), #9: Winter Activities – Staff monitoring of user conflicts between OSV users and non-motorize winter recreationists in areas open to OSV use to determine if additional resources are needed to mediate the issues (i.e., signage, recommendations for change in management for the area, etc.). The TNF knows there will now be a greater potential for conflict with non-motorized users. This is because they have created it with their non-sensical OSV plan that patently ignores their own PCT management plan, as well as reality on the ground. Specific to grant proposal G24-02-20-S01, the Sierra Snowmobile Foundation objects to all costs associated with Project Deliverables 4970.13(f)(2) #2: Educational Outreach, #3: Creating/Updating/Printing OHV related maps and/or educational brochures/guides, and #4: Creating/Updating/Printing of OHV related trail and/or interpretive signs/panels. If the TNF does not have the funds to create the bare minimum of public information materials for a plan 10 years in the making, it is not the state's obligation to make up for their lack of competence or planning Kevin Bazar - 5/6/2024

US FOREST SERVICE PATROL DISTRICTS

USFS - Angeles NF - Patrol District

USFS - Cleveland NF - Patrol District

USFS - Eldorado NF - Patrol District

USFS - Humbolt-Toiyabe NF - Patrol District

It is really sad the El Dorado forest will again be doing nothing to support the motorcycle OHV reail systems there. The Polka Dots Motorcycle Club has put 1000s hours and hundreds of dollars into trail maintenance in the Elkins Flat and Goldnote OHV areas. No new projects can be done because "state grants are too hard for them to do". Bruce Hendrickson - 5/4/2024

USFS - Inyo NF - Patrol District

his 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 beautiful and 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. Pat Woods - 3/30/2024

The work outlined in this proposal is vital to the preservation and enhancement of recreation opportunities on the Inyo National Forest. As OHV enthusiasts and Tread Lightly! Members we recognize the importance of this work in the face of increased visitation and the adverse effects of several successive and impactful winter seasons. We also recognize the need for us, as a community of enthusiasts, to step up and do our part to protect access to recreation opportunities and we welcome the volunteer opportunities this grant proposal will provide. Please strongly consider funding this proposal. Brandon Alvarez - 4/26/2024

Tread Lighlty! Recognizes that restoration grants such as this are vital to protecting the natural, cultural, and visual resources of the Inyo National Forest, and preserving existing legal OHV routes. The education component will provide invaluable educational touchpoints for the recreation community. Engaging the community through the proposed volunteer work days will help instill a sense of ownership and stewardship over the anticipated project sites. Overall this proposal is well reasoned and funding for it should be granted. Brandon Alvarez - 4/26/2024

USFS - Klamath NF - Patrol District

USFS - Lassen/Modoc NF - Patrol District

USFS - Los Padres NF - Patrol District

USFS - Mendocino NF - Patrol District

USFS - Plumas NF - Patrol District

USFS - San Bernardino NF - Patrol District

USFS - Sequoia NF - Patrol District

USFS - Shasta-Trinity/Six Rivers NF - Patrol District

USFS - Sierra NF - Patrol District

USFS - Stanislaus NF - Patrol District

USFS - Tahoe/Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit NF - Patrol District

CITIES

City of California City

I would like to comment on California City grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle association. The grants for California City are important to maintain OHV access to great opportunity. I am interested in your planning grant and would very much like to see a copy of your final report. How can I get a copy when complete? Ed Ed Stovin - 4/28/2024

City of Fresno Police Department

City of Santa Rosa Police Department

City of Simi Valley

I would like to comment on City of Simi Valley, Law Enforcement grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle association. I read in the application "The Simi Valley Police Department Dual-Purpose Motorcycle Unit is also planning to attend training hosted by California State Parks OHMVR Division law enforcement officers focusing on enforcement of OHV related vehicle codes and UTV training." I did not know about this training, but am interested in it. Please let me know when this training takes place. It is possible someone from CORVA may want to observe this. Ed Stovin - 4/28/2024

City of Tulare Recreation Parks and Library Department

I would like to comment on the City of Tulare grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle association. I like this project because it is similar to what we want to do in the San Diego area. I would love to organize a tour of your facility, possibly with San Diego County Parks staff, to see how you organize and operate your facility. Thanks, Ed Stovin Ed Stovin - 4/28/2024

Los Angeles Police Department / Valley Traffic Division, Off Road Unit

Mammoth Lakes Police Department

Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) is in support of grant goals submitted by the Mammoth Lakes Police Department that pertain to winter patrols. Upon reading the grant, Mammoth Lakes seems in especially high need of facilities, equipment, and staffing for winter patrols. We support their requests for officer reimbursement for OSV patrol time and related administrative costs, subscriptions for Garmin devices that will keep personnel safe, a truck for pulling OSV/OHV trailers, snowmobile storage space, snowmobile maintenance needs, and gear such as winter gloves for patrols. The grant would help to alleviate the stated staffing issues, and support 2 deputies being in the field. In an area with a very high amount of winter recreation and OSV use, supporting the needs of the Mammoth Lakes Police Department is crucial for all winter recreationists. We have seen how the presence of winter staff at OHV (OSV) trailheads can minimize winter recreation conflicts and create a safe, enjoyable experience for all users. Often there are good land management plans in place, but no funding for the staff needed to support them on the ground. By funding education for winter users and enforcement of things like wilderness boundaries and safe speeds, user increases and the difficulty in communicating land management changes can be mitigated. This ultimately helps to create a better experience for all of those getting out on public lands –both OSV and other winter users. Thank you for your consideration of our comments. We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with public agencies and winter recreation stakeholders to help develop equitable and balanced recreation opportunities. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. For more information, contact Kelly Bessem, WWA California Stewardship Manager OR Hilary Eisen, WWA Policy Director: heisen@winterwildlands.org Kelly Bessem - 5/6/2024

COUNTIES

Alameda County Sheriff's Office

i cannot support this grant request. Alameda County Board of Supervisors voted against the TESLA expansion of Carnegie SVRA. The Funds requested is way, way too much for chasing mini bikers riding outside of this SVRA and riding illegally on roads, alleys, and private property. This is just ONE reason Carnegie SVRA was created. Legal and safe OHV recreation. Nearly $200,000 for the Grant, is a cost of $16,666.66 PER MONTH! Please demand an AUDIT (Legal Requirement] be done to show where the money went in a past year. Alameda County is in financial mess........ Again, I CANNOT SUPPORT THIS GRANT! Cut it down to a reasonable number, as this is abuse to our Trust Fund. Dave Pickett Dave Pickett - 5/4/2024

Alpine County Sheriff's Office

Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) is in support of grant goals submitted by the Alpine County Sheriff's Office that pertain to winter staffing and equipment needs. We have seen how the presence of winter staff at OHV (OSV) trailheads can minimize winter recreation conflicts and create a safe, enjoyable experience for all users. Often there are good land management plans in place, but no funding for the staff needed to support them on the ground. By funding education for winter users and enforcement of things like wilderness boundaries and safe speeds, user increases and the difficulty in communicating land management changes can be mitigated. This ultimately helps to create a better experience for all of those getting out on public lands –both OSV and other winter users. Thank you for your consideration of our comments. We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with public agencies and winter recreation stakeholders to help develop equitable and balanced recreation opportunities. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. For more information, contact Kelly Bessem, WWA California Stewardship Manager OR Hilary Eisen, WWA Policy Director: heisen@winterwildlands.org Kelly Bessem - 5/6/2024

Amador County Sheriff's Office

I am pleased to SUPPORT this Grant. As an Off Highway Vehicle recreationist for over 50+ years, and Supporter of the Off Highway Motor Vehicle Division of Ca State Parks Grant program, I am happy that our Amador Sheriffs Division has applied for this Grant. This Grant, as written - contains the correct type information as to serve our area and continues Education Outreach, Trail Safety Service, Code violations when necessary, and sets time outlines for visitor recreationists coming into the recreation from outside of Amador County , especially on days of Holidays.. I applaud the continued year after year Grant applications, and the fact the Department does the Financial Match required and ties into Grant Request Total Expenditures. As the OHV Recreation User Community pays for vehicle registrations, and fuel taxes, Etc. which makes the grants available for just this kind of purpose. Of note: NO PUBLIC FUNDS are used for Grants like this, and funding is from the OHV enthusiasts via the OHMVRD Trust Funds. Next year, ACSO, in partnership with AC Search & Rescue, should apply for more funds to support Search & Rescue. As Amador County has year round OHV recreation, this would assist that program for OHV Recreation AND the people of our county and visitors that do not recreate by OHV. [Example: Mtn. Bikers, Kayaks, Hikers, CC Skiers, Campers] This request benefits ALL Amador residents and visitors to our county. Dave Pickett & Family Amador Resident c Dave Pickett - 5/4/2024

Calaveras County Sheriff's Department

I strongly encourage and support the proposed grant application by the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office. I have had many positive contacts with the SO in the OHV area over the years and have found them to be extremely pleasant and helpfull, both to myself and to others who's interaction I have witnessed. Many Thanks, Mike Borean Mike Borean - 3/6/2024

Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) is in support of grant goals submitted by the Calaveras County Sheriff's Department that pertain to winter staffing needs. This grant proposal supports a full-time OHV Deputy during the winter months who carries out patrols, enforcement, and education during the busiest of times for winter OHV activities. We have seen how the presence of winter staff at OHV (OSV) trailheads can minimize winter recreation conflicts and create a safe, enjoyable experience for all users. Often there are good land management plans in place, but no funding for the staff needed to support them on the ground. By funding education for winter users and enforcement of things like wilderness boundaries and safe speeds, user increases and the difficulty in communicating land management changes can be mitigated. This ultimately helps to create a better experience for all of those getting out on public lands –both OSV and other winter users. Thank you for your consideration of our comments. We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with public agencies and winter recreation stakeholders to help develop equitable and balanced recreation opportunities. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. For more information, contact Kelly Bessem, WWA California Stewardship Manager OR Hilary Eisen, WWA Policy Director: heisen@winterwildlands.org Kelly Bessem - 5/6/2024

Colusa County Sheriff's Office

El Dorado County CAO

This grant application is very important to the county and to the trail. Buck Island is in need of additional rock and trail delineation in this area. This is the only way to get the rock to this remote location. I hope this grant is fully funded. Vickie Sanders - 3/29/2024

The Rubicon Trail Foundation (RTF)is a 501{c} 3 educational charity whose mission is to enhance the future health and use of the Rubicon Trail while ensuring responsible year around trail access. RTF appreciates the ongoing work that El Dorado County has done to protect responsible use of the Rubicon Trail. We are especially appreciative of how hard County staff has worked to keep the sanitation and toilet pumping operations consistent and what a good job staff is doing in this area. RTF also generally supports the efforts outlined in the 2024 Ground Ops grant, but we have several questions and suggestions. In the Project Cost Estimate there is a sentence that reads, “This position is a full time position and the rate is fully rated”. Please explain what is meant by the “rate is fully rated”. In the Project Cost Estimate under the GIS section there is mention of Placer County’s lack of easement and lack of documentation on the Placer County side of the trail. We would like clarification as to why this is discussed. Is El Dorado County planning to undertake GIS documentation of the Placer County side of the trail? If so, which section of the trail and will there be coordinated engineering associated with the documentation? The paragraph mentions working on LTBMU lands but does not describe the work or scope, please clarify. In the Project Cost Estimate Line Item 4 there is discussion of an “HMP Plan” but there is no clarification of what HMP stands for or what the scope of the plan is. Please clarify what an HMP plan is and what it does. A significant dollar amount is being requested specifically for helicopter work in the Buck Island area, but there is no specific plan as to what is being undertaken. We would like to see the plan as an attachment to the grant, or even better, the County should provide a day of staff time to walk this area of the trail and describe to the public what will be undertaken. RTF has submitted comments and letters to El Dorado County Parks expressing our concern over drainage features and siltation in the Loon Lake kiosk parking area. We suggested then and will suggest again now that a planning grant be written and undertaken to address future remediation of these problems. RTF has submitted comments and letters to El Dorado County Parks expressing our concern over the integrity of the concrete vault holding tank at the Ellis Creek bathroom site. We suggest that the 2024 ground operations grant be revised to address assessment of the tank, and that a plan be made for remediation. The foundation does not wish to sound critical. These comments are submitted in the spirit of improving the quality of the grant and maintaining the health of the Rubicon Trail. We are in support of this grant. Ken Hower President Rubicon Trail Foundation Ken Hower - 4/17/2024

Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) is in support of grant goals submitted by the El Dorado County CAO that pertain to winter education needs. Printed media that educates users on winter recreation creates both a safer and more enjoyable experience for all users, including those new to public lands. It minimizes conflicts, environmental degradation, and the chance of users getting off route in winter conditions. Thank you for your consideration of our comments. We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with public agencies and winter recreation stakeholders to help develop equitable and balanced recreation opportunities. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. For more information, contact Kelly Bessem, WWA California Stewardship Manager OR Hilary Eisen, WWA Policy Director: heisen@winterwildlands.org Kelly Bessem - 5/6/2024

El Dorado County Sheriff's Office

The Rubicon Trail Foundation (RTF)is a 501{c} 3 educational charity whose mission is to enhance the future health and use of the Rubicon Trail while ensuring responsible year around trail access. We have encouraged and supported the El Dorado County Sheriffs Office (EDSO) providing patrols on the Rubicon Trail for many years. They have done an excellent job enforcing, working with the community, and helping to keep the trail safe and environmentally sound. We are specifically in support of the EDSO’s grant request for a Jeep vehicle to replace their 2007 patrol vehicle as it has many trail miles on it and has become unreliable. The foundation (RTF) has communicated with the EDSO on this project and pledged our support financially (for matching funds as necessary) and to assist within the community and with vendors to outfit and equip the new vehicle. We are in support of this grant. Ken Hower President Rubicon trail Foundation Ken Hower - 4/13/2024

The Rubicon Trail Foundation (RTF)is a 501{c} 3 educational charity whose mission is to enhance the future health and use of the Rubicon Trail while ensuring responsible year around trail access. We have encouraged and supported the El Dorado County Sheriffs Office (EDSO) providing patrols on the Rubicon Trail for many years. They have done an excellent job enforcing, working with the community, and helping to keep the trail safe and environmentally sound. We are specifically in support of the EDSO’s grant request for a Jeep vehicle to replace their 2007 patrol vehicle as it has many trail miles on it and has become unreliable. The foundation (RTF) has communicated with the EDSO on this project and pledged our support financially (for matching funds as necessary) and to assist within the community and with vendors to outfit and equip the new vehicle. We are in support of this grant. Ken Hower President Rubicon trail Foundation Ken Hower - 4/17/2024

Fresno County Sheriff's Office

Humboldt County Sheriff's Office

Imperial County Sheriff's Office

Inyo County Sheriff's Department

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 beautiful and 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 - 3/30/2024

Kern County Sheriff's Office

Kings County Sheriff’s Office

Lake County Sheriff's Office

Lassen County Sheriff's Department

Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) is in support of grant goals submitted by the Lassen County Sheriff's Department that pertain to winter staffing needs. This grant proposal would fund staffing in areas with high law enforcement needs due to public safety, cultural resources, and sensitive environmental habitats, including wilderness areas and areas of critical environmental concerns, with high need winter areas identified as: Fredonyer, Swain, and Bogard Snowmobile Parks, Mason Station, and the Eagle Lake area. We have seen how the presence of winter staff at OHV (OSV) trailheads can minimize winter recreation conflicts and create a safe, enjoyable experience for all users. Often there are good land management plans in place, but no funding for the staff needed to support them on the ground. By funding education for winter users and enforcement of things like wilderness boundaries and safe speeds, user increases and the difficulty in communicating land management changes can be mitigated. This ultimately helps to create a better experience for all of those getting out on public lands –both OSV and other winter users. Thank you for your consideration of our comments. We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with public agencies and winter recreation stakeholders to help develop equitable and balanced recreation opportunities. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. For more information, contact Kelly Bessem, WWA California Stewardship Manager OR Hilary Eisen, WWA Policy Director: heisen@winterwildlands.org Kelly Bessem - 5/6/2024

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department

I would like to offer my full support to this grant request. My wife and I often hike and ride horses on the trails in the San Francisquito Canyon area and along the Santa Clara River in the northern Santa Clarita Valley. There have been several times in the last year where we have not risked taking our horses out in the area due to the large number of off-road vehicles driving in the wash. When we first started riding our horse in the area back in 2014 we would occasionally come across a motorcyclist in the wash and at times they would even be courteous to the equestrian riders by turning off their vehicles until we passed on the trail. Over the last few years as the area has developed further the off-road vehicle drivers have become much more aggressive and have even ridden on to private horse property next to an arena while equestrian lessons have been taking place, spooking the horses and riders. There has also been a proliferation of e-bikes in the wash and on the trails, the type that travel at more than 25mph and resemble a small motorcycle as opposed to a bicycle. They are often ridden by inexperienced riders who have no regard for anyone else on the trail. While they may be allowed in the area, they need to be aware that there are equestrians in the area and ride responsibly. The danger to the equestrian community is that they have a greater chance of spooking a horse and having the rider be thrown, as they come up on the horses at a high rate of speed and startle the horses as they cannot hear them coming. Please approve this grant as soon as time permits. We could tell within just a few short weeks when the last grant expired and the area was no longer being monitored. Michael DeValue - 3/6/2024

I am writing to give my support for the OHV Grant. This is a necessary form of patrol, especially in our rural communities. The towns of Acton and Agua Dulce are hot spots for OHV trespassing on private land and tearing up dirt roads that are maintained and used by residents. They speed excessively through neighborhoods, spook horses with riders and bully walkers, runners, and children on bicycles who have to get our of the way or chance being injured. Reality is someone is going to get killed because of them. We have put up fences, they knock it down. We put up barriers and they make new trails by going around. We put up signs, they tear them down. They are rude and disrespectful. And they cost us a lot of money. We have spoken with our resident Deputy and there is nothing he can do to help us with the speed, he can not give chase and since most of it happens on private dirt roads and property, he is at a loss of what he can do. Even with the thought that we would not be held liable for a OHV going into our windshield because of their recklessness and speed. We will be forever damaged because of being involved in an accident that hurt or even killed another human or be dealing with the legal system into infinity because the family wanting to cause emotional or financial harm to ease their loss. Even with the OHV site of Rower Flats, these vehicles still victimize tax payers who own and maintain land in unincorporated Los Angeles County. The OHV Patrol is our only source to help innocent taxpayers stop OHV from trespassing on our properties. In closing, YES, I support the OHV Grant! Respectfully, Cindy Grimes Agua Dulce, CA Cindy Grimes - 3/14/2024

I am in complete support for this important element of law enforcement that allows law the LA Co. Sherriff Dept. to patrol and maintain the use of trails in the Santa Clarita riverbeds and hills. During the previous period of the grants, safety for equestrians was greatly improved due to the monitoring of Sherrif personnel allowing the proper use by walkers, joggers, dog walkers, bike riders (non-motorized e-bikes), and equestrians. The beauty of the wash and hills was not destroyed by dirt bikes and trucks cutting through fields and roads. Within days of the grant ending, trucks were driving at street speeds (45-60 mph) making some trails too dangerous to risk riding on. Groups of dirt bike riders from 2 to over 15 , at times, made riding horses and simply walking trails dangerous due to the fact that trucks and dirt bikes were racing and moving at such high speeds. Although e-bikes may not be categorized as “motorized vehicles”, their speed is not the same as a regular person riding a bike. Most of the e-bike riders are teens and pre-teens and are not aware of their surroundings or road rules, often riding headlong into equestrians. This has occurred twice to me and although my horse is a seasoned trail horse, having a swiftly moving (silent) vehicle rounding a corner on a trail designed for a single runner or rider made for a somewhat dangerous encounter. I enjoy sharing this beautiful outdoor space with others who are not destroying the trails and environment. I think there should be space for motorized vehicle experiences, separate from non-motorized vehicles. I’m grateful that this grant can continue to keep trails set aside a safe space, and law enforcement protection to protect non-motorized use for those of us who wish to enjoy the trails. The last years have demonstrated the efficacy of the LA County Sherriff Dept. Off Road Task Force’s efforts. Virginia DeValue - 3/23/2024

I would like to comment on the LA County Sheriff's Dept grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. How do you justify charging $184/hour for Staff-Sergeant/Deputies? One application shows $184 per hour, the other shows $100 and $112. How do you justify this? That $184 seems absurdly high. You justify the need for another 4X4 truck in the text, but have no line item for a new truck in either application. Why are you talking about it? Ed Stovin - 4/28/2024

Madera County Sheriff's Office

Mariposa County Sheriff's Office

Mono County Sheriff's Department

THIS GRANT COMMENT IS FROM THE EASTERN SIERRA 4X4 CLUB Submitted by Pat Woods The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club is based out of Bishop, CA. We have over 75 members and are committed to sustainable land use and good off-roading practices. We are active in our community and communicate closely with government land management agencies. We take pride in our volunteer support to the Inyo National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management. The Eastern Sierra 4WD Club takes responsibility for promoting safe and sane four wheeling. Our club is open to anyone who supports our goals and is interested in exploring our wonderful area. We support Conservation with Utilization and TREAD LIGHTLY practices. This request for funding should be approved. 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. Most of these folks access the forest by vehicle. Public compliance with all laws and regulations ensures that we will have beautiful and healthy public lands 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 our members have had with their officers in the field have been positive. Eastern Sierra 4X4 Club - 4/13/2024

Napa County Sheriff's Office

I am grateful that the NCSD continues to support patrol and law enforcement in the Knoxville OHV recreation area. I live and work at the intersection of Napa/Lake/Yolo counties, and the remoteness of the location tends to attract some people who are looking for areas where reckless or illegal activity can be engaged in. The presence of the NCSD officers in the area is invaluable, and it is important that they have the equipment, training, and PPE to conduct their activities in a professional manner. Without the OHV team patrolling the KRA, there would be an increased safety and security risk to residents of the area and law abiding citizens using the nearby public lands. Thank you for supporting the NCSC's application. Catherine Koehler - 3/23/2024

Nevada County Sheriff's Office

Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) is in support of grant goals submitted by the Nevada County Sheriff's Office that pertain to winter education and patrols. During the winter, this area features hundreds of square miles of OSV recreation, with recent land management plan changes due to the signing of the Tahoe National Forest OSV Plan. As stated by Nevada County personnel, there is public confusion about which areas are open to motorized users and a public perception that unauthorized motorized use will not be enforced. This grant would fund 2 year-around deputies that would patrol known high-use areas as well as multi-user areas such as Boca Reservoir, and special winter events such as the California Four Wheel Drive Association Winter Fun Festival. We have seen how the presence of winter staff at OHV (OSV) trailheads can minimize winter recreation conflicts and create a safe, enjoyable experience for all users. Often there are good land management plans in place, but no funding for the staff needed to support them on the ground. By funding education for winter users and enforcement of things like wilderness boundaries and safe speeds, user increases and the difficulty in communicating land management changes can be mitigated. This ultimately helps to create a better experience for all of those getting out on public lands –both OSV and other winter users. Thank you for your consideration of our comments. We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with public agencies and winter recreation stakeholders to help develop equitable and balanced recreation opportunities. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. For more information, contact Kelly Bessem, WWA California Stewardship Manager OR Hilary Eisen, WWA Policy Director: heisen@winterwildlands.org Kelly Bessem - 5/6/2024

Placer County Sheriff's Office

Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) is in support of grant goals submitted by the Placer County Sheriff's Office that pertain to education and winter patrols in both the Auburn and Tahoe areas. Placer county receives a high amount of winter OSV use, especially in the Tahoe area and where there have been land management plan changes due to the signing of the Tahoe National Forest OSV Plan.This grant would provide funding for deputies to be trained in snowmobile use to support important patrols, in high use areas such as the Rubicon staging area or south of North Star ski resort. Known public safety issues in winter OHV areas include alcohol consumption while driving, littering, public nuisance, and parking violations due to such high visitation rates. They also cite environmental concerns that go along with high use. Thank you for your consideration of our comments. We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with public agencies and winter recreation stakeholders to help develop equitable and balanced recreation opportunities. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. For more information, contact Kelly Bessem, WWA California Stewardship Manager OR Hilary Eisen, WWA Policy Director: heisen@winterwildlands.org Kelly Bessem - 5/6/2024

Plumas County

I fully support this grant application. Providing these funds will help maintain sustainable trails and minimize impacts use-trails around obstacles on routes. Please approve this grant. Thank you! Maia Averett - 3/7/2024

Please continue to build new trails in Plumas County. Thanks! Jim Dallas - 3/7/2024

I write in full support of the Claremont Phase 1 Development project. This trail system would be an incredible addition to the local region, its citizens, and the economy. We have seen the positive impacts of the Mt. Hough Trail System development, and I believe the development of trails on Claremont would only contribute to the vibrancy of Quincy and the surrounding communities in a similar fashion. These additional trails would bring in folks from outside of our county, which brings dollars to local businesses. In addition, it would provide more recreation opportunities for our local citizens, which equates to healthier and happier lives. I am a regular trail user and it is very important to me that these trails be developed. Please fund this grant and support our local trail system, citizens, and economy. Kyle Stone - 3/8/2024

I write in full support of the PNF Ground Operations project. The Mt. Hough Trail System and other trails included in this project are critical to the health and vibrancy of Quincy and the surrounding communities. These trails bring in folks from outside of our county, which brings dollars to local businesses. They're also an incredible recreation outlet for our local citizens. I am a regular trail user and it is very important to me that these trails are maintained. Proper maintenance will keep users safe and on trails, and alleviate watershed impacts. Please fund this grant and support our local trail system, citizens, and economy. Kyle Stone - 3/8/2024

To whom it may concern: I fully support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship's(SBTS) CA-OHV application for the Plumas County trail system grant. With an approved grant. SBTS can continue to support and create recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, local employment, sustainable trail system that requires less maintenance and keep trails open, safe all the while protecting the watershed. Please award SBTS this grant. Thank you, Martin Scheel Martin Scheel - 3/11/2024

As a Quincy resident, hiker, trail runner, and mountain biker, I appreciate the work SBTS puts into our local trails. Trail access and construction is an essential part of the economic future of Plumas County. Graham Archer - 3/11/2024

The trail systems in and around Downieville are super important to myself and so many like minded nature lovers. They also spur so much economic benefit in areas around these trails as they are a nationwide destination. Toby Schultz - 3/22/2024

This grant will empower local communities to actively participate in trail stewardship. Community-led events, volunteer workdays, and citizen science projects foster a sense of ownership and pride in maintaining trails. As a resident of Plumas County, these trail networks directly impact the economy for residents in Plumas County. Paul Jauregui - 3/23/2024

Myself and friends use the hiking trails in south park, Claremont, and others surrounding the Quincy area extensively year round. These trails provide the exercise and natural beauty to promote our physical and mental health on a daily basis. The development and maintenance of these trails are greatly appreciated. More trails that are within walking distance of east Quincy and/or on the sunny, south slopes accessible in the winter are especially useful. Walking/bicycle paths within the community along hwy 70, Lee road, Quincy jct, and Chandler roads would increase access and safety. Future projects would be very useful and appreciated. Paul Stancheff - 3/25/2024

Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is a mountain biking club.They are trying to use public funds to build mountain biking trails for their mountain biking clients. Any trails built must be designed for all users, not just one user. These are multiple use trails, are they not? Why are these trails being funded by OHV department of CA? Are these contemplated trails being built just for moto and mountain bikers? I am opposed to ay such trail development on our public lands. Lane P. Labbe' - 4/4/2024

If any of these trails do not meet the design criteria for multiple use as defined by the Forest Service Trails Division, then they must be re-designed to make them safe for equestrian and pedestrian users. After all, these are multiple use trails. These are our public lands and the laws requires that multiple use trails meet certain design criteria. It there is no re-design element of these existing trails, then I am opposed. Lane P. Labbe' - 4/4/2024

The proposed trail maintenance is vital for safe recreation in the area. Safe, well maintained OHV trails ensure lower environmental impact and fewer calls for emergency service. They also provide quick access in the event of wildfires. Erik Forberg - 4/24/2024

This addition to the existing trail system will further the development of Plumas County as a recreation destination that will bring in much needed economic stimulus to communities that have been negatively affected by natural disasters. Erik Forberg - 4/24/2024

As long-time resident of northern California (resident of SF for past 35 years) and a frequent visitor (along with my wife, son and daughter) to the Quincy/Mt. Hough area, I wanted to express my strong support for this grant proposal. Start with the fact that the SBTS organization is a first rate organization that is committed to the responsible and thoughtful development of single track trails for both motorized and non-motorized two wheeled recreation in the Sierra Buttes/Downieville area. They have a long history of responsible stewardship of the network of trails and know exactly where to put their resources to make best use of the grant. Second, I have ridden in the area countless times on both my off-road motorcycle and on my Mt. Bike and the prospect of further developing the Claremont Trail System for both motorized and non-motorized use would be an extraordinarily positive development for those of us who love exploring the area on two wheels. Third, the Claremont Trail System has the potential to be a key contributor to the economic vitality of Quincy, Taylorsville and the broader Plumas County economy. The promise of an extended trail network in the area for both motorized and non-motorized use promises to increase the the attraction of the area for two wheel enthusiasts and further increase the number of people to the area during the summer and fall seasons year in and year out. Investing in the further development of these trails is an investment in the economic well being of the entire area. Please consider my comments and those of others as you consider this grant request. Given the organization involved and trail system in question, you couldn't make a better investment. Fred Benz - 5/2/2024

As long-time resident of northern California (resident of SF for past 35 years) and a frequent visitor (along with my wife, son and daughter) to Plumas County and surrounding Plumas National Forest, I wanted to express my strong support for this grant proposal. Start with the fact that the SBTS organization is a first rate organization that is committed to the responsible and thoughtful development of single track trails for both motorized and non-motorized two wheeled recreation in the Plumas National Forest. They have a long history of responsible stewardship of the network of trails and know exactly where to put their resources to make best use of the grant. Second, I have ridden these trails numerous times on both my off-road motorcycle and on my Mt. Bike and can attest to the fact that the motorized single track in the Plumas National Forest is some of the best single track riding in northern California. Point being, that this area is deserving of funding and resources to preserve the quality and character of the trails. Third, the trails in the Plumas National Forest serve as a key contributor to the economic vitality of Quincy and the surrounding communities in Plumas County. The quality of the riding (both motorized and non-motorized) draws thousands of people to the area during the summer and fall seasons year in and year out. Investing in the maintenance of these trails is an investment in the economic well being of the entire area. Please consider my comments and those of others as you consider this grant request. Given the organization involved and trail system in question, you couldn't make a better investment. Fred Benz - 5/2/2024

we certainly need to keep these trails updated and safe. They bring valuable economic opportunity to the region, provides recreation for locals and visitors alike while also being mindful of the nature and watershed. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has proved themselves worthy of this grant and fully deserve it. Max Godino - 5/6/2024

These trails greatly improve quality of life for locals & visitors! They create employment opportunities & ensure sustainable trails for future generations! The SBTS is crucial to Plumas county for recreation & beyond! Rachel Dobronyi - 5/6/2024

May 6, 2024 California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Grants Program cc: Plumas County Planning Director, Tracy Ferguson Plumas National Forest Supervisor, Chris Carlton Region 5 Forest Service Deputy Regional Forester, Jody Holzworth Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship Director of Grant Management, Michelle Abramson RE: Claremont Phase 1 Development OHV Grant Proposal For fifty years Friends of Plumas Wildernesses (FOPW) has been dedicated to studying, exploring, and safeguarding natural ecosystems where the Sierra and Cascades meet through conservation, advocacy, stewardship, and collaboration. The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) is a non-profit environmental organization with over 12,500 members in 36 Chapters across California and Baja California, Mexico. CNPS’s mission is to protect California’s native plant heritage and preserve it for future generations through the application of science, research, education, and conservation. We work closely with decision-makers, scientists, and local planners to advocate for well-informed policies, regulations, and land management practices. Our organizations acknowledge that motorized recreation is an appropriate use of our multiple-use public lands if it does not adversely impact natural and cultural resources or other established uses. FOPW has worked with the Plumas National Forest (PNF) and Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) to build trails in an environmentally considerate, long-term sustainable fashion. We greatly appreciate that SBTS has worked with FOPW in the past to improve the proposed Claremont Trail System. It is with that intent that we submit these comments. The Claremont Phase 1 Development OHV grant proposal states: “PNF and SBTS have been partnering with Plumas County to maintain and build OHV trails… on their public lands. … In 2019, Plumas County was granted a Planning Grant through the OHMVR Grants Program to develop a trail alignment and complete environmental assessment for the Claremont Trail System near Quincy, CA. … The goals of the 2019 Planning Grant included identifying trail routes that avoided any impact on resources. … These goals were achieved with the alignment of 62 miles of trails…” (emphasis added). Our organizations do not believe that the trail alignment identified for Claremont Phase 1 “avoided any impact on resources” or complied with Minimization Criteria required for Off-Road Vehicle use on federal public lands. The map titled Environmental Impacts of the Proposed Claremont Trail Alignment clearly shows the route is placed within Critical Habitat of the federally Endangered Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog and overlaps with several populations of two known rare plant species. This information is readily available to the public on the California Natural Diversity Database. In addition, a short segment of the proposed alignment overlaps with the Middle Fork Citizen Inventoried Roadless Area (CIRA) identified by The Wilderness Society (TWS) in 2017. Maps of TWS CIRAs on the Tahoe and Plumas National Forest are available online. The 57,786 acre Middle Fork CIRA is the largest roadless area on the Plumas National Forest. See map titled: Environmental Impacts of the Proposed Claremont Trail Alignment Our Concerns: Segment 1 The proposed alignment intersects with the following known locations of rare plants. Lupinus dalesiae, 7 populations, Rare Plant Rank 4.2 Monardella follettii, 1 population, Rare Plant Rank 1B.2 Segment 3 The proposed alignment would add 5.15 miles of motorized trail within Critical Habitat of the federally Endangered Sierra Nevada Yellow-legged frog. The eastern portion of Segment 3 is within the Middle Fork Citizen Inventoried Roadless Area mapped and field verified by The Wilderness Society in 2017. Our Recommendations: To comply with Minimization Criteria we recommend: Any portion of the proposed Claremont trail alignment within Critical Habitat of the federally Endangered Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog utilize existing roads within Critical Habitat or be realigned so the route is outside of Critical Habitat. Any portion of the proposed Claremont trail alignment within known populations of rare plants utilize existing roads where rare plants are known to occur or be realigned so the route does not overlap with known populations of rare plants. To retain existing roadless areas we recommend: The short segment of proposed trail at the eastern edge of Segment 3 utilizes existing roads to avoid encroaching into the Citizen Inventoried Roadless Area identified and field verified by The Wilderness Society. Representatives of our organizations had the opportunity to meet with Region 5 Forest Service leadership in Sacramento on May 2, 2024. At the meeting FOPW board member Darrel Jury showed the Deputy Regional Forester Jody Holzworth a map of the Claremont Phase 1 trail alignment and the extent to which it overlaps with Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog Critical Habitat. The Deputy Regional Forester stated that the trail should not go there. We concur, and expect that motorized trail funders and developers will respect legal requirements and Forest Service policy by realigning trail segments to avoid endangered species Critical Habitat, known populations of rare plants and Citizen Inventoried Roadless Areas. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Claremont Phase 1 Development grant proposal. Sincerely, Ron Logan Board President Friends of Plumas Wilderness PO Box 1441 Quincy, CA 95971 Brendan Wilce Conservation Program Coordinator California Native Plant Society 2707 K Street, Suite 1 Sacramento, CA 95816 Darrel Jury - 5/6/2024

I am writing in full support of this grant and plan. The SBTS development and maintenance of trails in the lost Sierra and specifically in Quincy/Mt Hough has been great for the area. My household makes multiple trips from Truckee to ride mountain bikes and dirt bikes in this area and we look forward to the additional planned trails. Andy Bell - 5/6/2024

Please email ohv.grants@parks.ca.gov to request the comment document with figures (PDF)

May 6, 2024
California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Grants Program
cc:
Plumas County Planning Director, Tracy Ferguson
Plumas National Forest Supervisor, Chris Carlton
Region 5 Forest Service Deputy Regional Forester, Jody Holzworth
Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship Director of Grant Management, Michelle Abramson
RE: Claremont Phase 1 Development OHV Grant Proposal
For fifty years Friends of Plumas Wildernesses (FOPW) has been dedicated to studying,
exploring, and safeguarding natural ecosystems where the Sierra and Cascades meet through
conservation, advocacy, stewardship, and collaboration.
The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) is a non-profit environmental organization with
over 12,500 members in 36 Chapters across California and Baja California, Mexico. CNPS’s
mission is to protect California’s native plant heritage and preserve it for future generations
through the application of science, research, education, and conservation. We work closely
with decision-makers, scientists, and local planners to advocate for well-informed policies,
regulations, and land management practices.
Our organizations acknowledge that motorized recreation is an appropriate use of our
multiple-use public lands if it does not adversely impact natural and cultural resources or
other established uses. FOPW has worked with the Plumas National Forest (PNF) and Sierra
Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) to build trails in an environmentally considerate, long-term
sustainable fashion. We greatly appreciate that SBTS has worked with FOPW in the past to
improve the proposed Claremont Trail System. It is with that intent that we submit these
comments.
The Claremont Phase 1 Development OHV grant proposal states: “PNF and SBTS have been
partnering with Plumas County to maintain and build OHV trails… on their public lands. … In
2019, Plumas County was granted a Planning Grant through the OHMVR Grants Program to
develop a trail alignment and complete environmental assessment for the Claremont Trail
System near Quincy, CA. … The goals of the 2019 Planning Grant included identifying trail
routes that avoided any impact on resources. … These goals were achieved with the
alignment of 62 miles of trails…” (emphasis added).
Our organizations do not believe that the trail alignment identified for Claremont Phase 1
“avoided any impact on resources” or complied with Minimization Criteria required for
Off-Road Vehicle use on federal public lands. The map titled Environmental Impacts of the
Proposed Claremont Trail Alignment clearly shows the route is placed within Critical Habitat
of the federally Endangered Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog and overlaps with several
populations of two known rare plant species. This information is readily available to the
public on the California Natural Diversity Database. In addition, a short segment of the
proposed alignment overlaps with the Middle Fork Citizen Inventoried Roadless Area (CIRA)
identified by The Wilderness Society (TWS) in 2017. Maps of TWS CIRAs on the Tahoe and
Plumas National Forest are available online. The 57,786 acre Middle Fork CIRA is the largest
roadless area on the Plumas National Forest.
Our Concerns:
Segment 1
• The proposed alignment intersects with the following known locations of rare plants.
• Lupinus dalesiae, 7 populations, Rare Plant Rank 4.2
• Monardella follettii, 1 population, Rare Plant Rank 1B.2
Segment 3
• The proposed alignment would add 5.15 miles of motorized trail within Critical
Habitat of the federally Endangered Sierra Nevada Yellow-legged frog.
• The eastern portion of Segment 3 is within the Middle Fork Citizen Inventoried
Roadless Area mapped and field verified by The Wilderness Society in 2017.
Our Recommendations:
To comply with Minimization Criteria we recommend:
• Any portion of the proposed Claremont trail alignment within Critical Habitat of the
federally Endangered Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog utilize existing roads within
Critical Habitat or be realigned so the route is outside of Critical Habitat.
• Any portion of the proposed Claremont trail alignment within known populations of
rare plants utilize existing roads where rare plants are known to occur or be realigned
so the route does not overlap with known populations of rare plants.
To retain existing roadless areas we recommend:
• The short segment of proposed trail at the eastern edge of Segment 3 utilizes existing
roads to avoid encroaching into the Citizen Inventoried Roadless Area identified and
field verified by The Wilderness Society.
Representatives of our organizations had the opportunity to meet with Region 5 Forest
Service leadership in Sacramento on May 2, 2024. At the meeting FOPW board member
Darrel Jury showed the Deputy Regional Forester Jody Holzworth a map of the Claremont
Phase 1 trail alignment and the extent to which it overlaps with Sierra Nevada yellow-legged
frog Critical Habitat. The Deputy Regional Forester stated that the trail should not go there.
We concur, and expect that motorized trail funders and developers will respect legal
requirements and Forest Service policy by realigning trail segments to avoid endangered
species Critical Habitat, known populations of rare plants and Citizen Inventoried Roadless
Areas.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Claremont Phase 1 Development grant
proposal.
Sincerely,
Ron Logan
Board President
Friends of Plumas Wilderness
PO Box 1441
Quincy, CA 95971
Brendan Wilce
Conservation Program Coordinator
California Native Plant Society
2707 K Street, Suite 1
Sacramento, CA 95816 Ron Logan / Brendan Wilce - 5/6/2024

Plumas County Public Works

Plumas County Sheriff's Office

Riverside County Sheriff's Department

Sacramento County Regional Parks

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department

San Diego County Sheriff's Department

I would like to comment on the San Diego County Sheriff's Dept grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. First I would like to say that I am not opposed to this application, but I have found some irregularities I would like to point out. Maybe the applicant can explain some points. Quoted from the application on page 1 "The SAR unit is non-profit and responds to search missions involving lost persons, overdue hikers, downed aircraft, stranded motorist, human remains detection, evidence searches, body recoveries, natural disasters, and other rescue operations in urban and rural areas in the San Diego county. " I don't understand how they are "non profit" They are a county agency. I see all the types of responses they make, but I don't see OHV as a type of response. Should OHV money be used for overdue hikers and downed aircraft? I don't think so. Also on page 1 you mention you service "Pinyon Canyon Road". There is no such road as Pinyon Canyon Road. You may be thinking of Pinyon Mountain Road in Anza Borrego Desert State Park. This road is for street legal vehicles, OHV is not allowed. As ABDSP is a State Park, I don't believe grant money can be used there. You also mention " McCain Valley Road" as an OHV area. OHV's are prohibited on McCain Valley Road, but are allowed in nearby Lark Canyon OHV area. The vehicles you want to purchase will do no good in Lark Canyon, as it is a motorcycle area with very narrow routes (I personally ride there). You state you would like funding for training, specifically training for • Land Navigation and Orienteering • Human Tracking and Area Search • Search Management • Technical Rope Rescue • Radio Communications • Canine Training - Human Scent Trail, Area Search, Waterborne Search, and Human Cadaver Search • Off-road Vehicle Operations and Winching • Off-road Route Surveys. While these are skills we all want our sheriff's to have, I am not sure if off roaders want our money to pay for training in these non OHV areas. Waterborne search? How is that OHV related? On Page 4 the applicant mentions where training takes place, but some of these are fictional areas. There is no such place as Otay Mesa Mountain Truck Trails. You may be referring to Otay Mountain Truck Trail. I am very knowledgeable of OHV in San Diego County and have never heard of "Borrego Springs Trails" for OHV. The same for "Anza-Borrego Springs OHV routes". Anza Borrego Desert State Park has no OHV usage (not since 1985). Also on page 4 it says " provide medical aid, search for stranded motorists, search for lost or overdue hikers, and rescue persons in difficult terrain". This is nice, but how does it help OHV? This is an OHV grant application, not general SAR. The applicant is looking for money to buy two ATV's. Are ATV's allowed to be used by LE in areas where ATV's are not allowed? If not, then they could only be used in Corral Canyon and Otay Mountain Truck Trail. I frequent these areas and never see a need for law enforcement. Otay Mountain has abundant Border Patrol in the area, negating the need for sheriffs. Corral Canyon is in the Cleveland National Forest and they have applied for a OHMVR State Parks law enforcement grant to patrol there. There is no mention of a cooperating LE agreement between ORET and CNF in the application. Where would you be using these ATV's? Page 4 says "The SAR unit's project shall promote OHV Safety, respect private property, and adhere to all rules and guidance per the Cal. Code Regs. Tit. 14, § 4970.13(f)(6) - Education and Safety". How are you promoting OHV safety? I see evaluation criteria sections 7, 8, 9 and 10 are not checked. Evaluation criteria says you can get points with public input in number 6. Next year you are invited to get input from members of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. I am president and we hold monthly meetings. I have met members of ORET in the past and would like to forge a relationship with the current members. I would enjoy a tour of your facility and equipment and would always be happy to consult with you on this or other grant applications. Ed Stovin - 5/2/2024

San Joaquin County Sheriff's Department

Santa Barbara Sheriff's Office

Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department

have been a patron of Metcalf Motorcycle Park for over 20 years. This exceptional facility offers a safe and accessible environment for practicing dirt bike riding, conveniently located within a short drive from most areas in the San Francisco Bay Area. Over the past five years, I have become deeply involved as a volunteer with the Santa Clara County Park, collaborating closely with the staff at Metcalf Park. Together, we not only conduct regular trail maintenance but also work on enhancing some of the riding areas. Our dedicated group, in partnership with the park staff, has developed a five-year plan to improve and expand the trails area. Despite facing numerous challenges such as a shortage of heavy equipment, a lack of operators when equipment is available, administrative hurdles, budget constraints, and other external factors, we remain committed to our goals. We wholeheartedly support this grant application, as it promises to help address some of these issues. Securing this funding would enable the park and our group to provide improved and expanded services to those who enjoy the park. Thank you for your consideration. Denis Roberts - 5/4/2024

Stanislaus County Parks and Recreation Department

Frank Raines is a family favorite and needs the extra support to maintain its trails and facilities. This grant will be crucial for the future of this park that is loved by many. Jiana Escobar - 3/26/2024

Frank Raines OHV Park is a unique park that not only provides recreation to OHV but also has extensive camping facilities. This makes it extremely popular among families throughout CA. This park must receive grant money to restore the park after severe weather damage. Trevor Moore - 3/26/2024

Stanislaus County Sheriff's Department

Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

Yolo County Sheriff's Office

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

Adventure Trail System of the Eastern Sierra Inc.

I support this grant application. This area in question is a very important area for public recreation steeped in local history. This group is dedicated to Open access to all users, and it is inherently dependent on OHV access, not only for OHV activities, rather, it allows so many more user groups to access the area as well. One strong point in their language is "Education", education is key to building stewardship among users. The various opportunities to educating people in proper stewardship are through contact as mentioned, this outreach goes very far for teaching people what they may not know. Outreach to schools, teaching kids about the environment and how to care for it while they enjoy their time out on the trails, laying a foundation that later will reinforce their understanding of stewardship. Maps help a lot to give direction not only where to go, but where not to go. And kiosks with a big map with information on the area which include some history and information needed to recreate safely and to be considerate of others and the environment. I believe this effort is a good model for a stewardship in promoting proper use of public lands and a good partnership to ensure open access. Previous grants from this group have been very successful in educating and giving direction to users. Glenn Clark - 3/8/2024

We need winter grooming on a regular basis based on not only amount of snowfall it needs to be groomed based on use. If there is adequate snow trails should be groomed on a regular basis and not just when users complain. We also need enough money for qualified groomer drivers that know how to smooth trails and not just roll over them leaving bumpy unridable terrain. Lastly grooming should continue through April if deep enough snow permits. Sincerely, Bob Meichtry 818-389-1523 Bob Meichtry - 3/11/2024

We need winter Law Enforcement to patrol the trails and issue tickets to wheeled vehicle violators that are tearing up the trail system. We also need winter grooming on a regular basis based on not only amount of snowfall it needs to be groomed based on use. If there is adequate snow trails should be groomed on a regular basis and not just when users complain. We also need enough money for qualified groomer drivers that know how to smooth trails and not just roll over them leaving bumpy unridable terrain. Lastly grooming should continue through April if deep enough snow permits. Sincerely, Bob Meichtry 818-389-1523 Bob Meichtry - 3/11/2024

As the elected County Supervisor for this location, I fully support this application and wish to convey how effective Adventure Trails of the Eastern Sierra has been in working with numerous organizations to further the recreational opportunities for visitors and locals alike. ATES has a long record of mobilizing numerous volunteer groups to maintain roads, trails, repair damages and educate OHV users. Adventure Trails of the Eastern Sierra has worked successfully with the US Forest Service on route maintenance and access particularly given that the Inyo National Forest, with more than 2 million acres of land to manage, simply does not have the staff or capacity to maintain roads and trails as needed accommodate the public. ATES has also worked effectively with Inyo County on developing signage, maps, proper use and camping methods as well as interpretive information. This effort has led to disseminating information through local visitor centers which in turn is very effective in educating our visitors. This is critical to a tourism-based economy such as ours. This proven organization of effective volunteers with decades of experience in maintenance, equipment use and training is a needed resource for the Coyote area. Coyote is a tremendous public lands asset with a long history of recreational use that needs dedicated resources. Adventure Trails of the Eastern Sierra is just the organization to provide that resource. Thank you, Jen Roeser Inyo County Supervisor, District 4 760-878-8609 Jen Roeser - 3/24/2024

This project should be funded. Coyote Flats is a major recreation area that attracts many visitors every year. The road is steep , with many sharp turns and subject to a high level of erosion that can make it nearly impassable to anything but the most capable of HOV’s. It has been closed many times in the last few years because, approprately, local authories deemed it too dangerous. Maintaining the road so that Coyote Flats can be accessed by reasonably equipped HOV’s is vital. This project enables local support to the BLM, INF and Inyo County s efforts to maintain access that benefits everyone in the Owens Valley. John Shepherd - 3/30/2024

Hello, i have lived in the eastern sierra for over 30 years and recreated responsibly thruout that time. I served on the Inyo nf Travel mgmnt team designating the Forest rds and have traveled most all of them. I have watched the Inyo nf engineering dept shrink over the years until it is barely able to maintain its main roads, let alone the lesser class rds. The Coyote flats area draws many tourists to the area because of its remoteness and beauty and 4x4 accessibility. The Adventure trails program can help the Forest reliably maintain access to this important economic generator that benefits all local businesses. Local jeepers are eager to help as well. Thank you for your consideration of this important grant request. The Coyote Flats area is a huge economic generator for the area and reliable access to it will keep tourists including it in their plans Greg Weirick - 3/30/2024

This proposal should be funded. The Coyote area is a OHV gem in the Eastern Sierra. Our area 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. Proper and efficient monitoring, maintenance and repair of level 2 roads is essential for better resource management and they provide a rewarding OHV experience for our visitors. The winter of 2023 did a huge amount of damage to many roads in our area and made the Coyote road unsafe, to the point it was closed by Inyo National Forest. INF did not have the resources to repair the damage, so volunteer groups got together to fix the damage and reopen the road. Now there needs to be consistent maintenance and Adventure Trails is going to make that happen. As an individual who has patrolled and driven these roads for over 30 years, I endorse the much-needed maintenance and repair work that will be done with this funding. Thanks Pat Woods - 3/30/2024

This proposal should be funded. As a resident of Bishop and member of the ES4WD Club, I have witnessed a huge increase in the number of people who recreate in the Coyote Flats area. Last year's weather did a lot of damage to the roads and access in some areas is unsafe. For the continued enjoyment and safety of the OHV visitors it is essential for the roads to be repaired and maintained. Please support the funding of the Grant. Thank you. Debby Hidalgo - 4/12/2024

THIS GRANT COMMENT IS FROM THE EASTERN SIERRA 4X4 CLUB Submitted by Pat Woods The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club is based out of Bishop, CA. We have over 75 members and are committed to sustainable land use and good off-roading practices. We are active in our community and communicate closely with government land management agencies. We take pride in our volunteer support to the Inyo National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management. The Eastern Sierra 4WD Club takes responsibility for promoting safe and sane four wheeling. Our club is open to anyone who supports our goals and is interested in exploring our wonderful area. We support Conservation with Utilization and TREAD LIGHTLY practices. This grant request should be funded. Our area 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. Proper and efficient monitoring, maintenance and repair of level 2 roads is essential for better resource management and they provide a rewarding OHV experience for our visitors. The Coyote area is a OHV gem in the Eastern Sierra. The storms of 2022/23 did a huge amount of damage to many roads in our area and made the Coyote road unsafe, to the point it was closed by Inyo National Forest. INF did not have the resources to repair the damage, so volunteer groups got together to fix the damage and reopen the road. Now there needs to do consistent maintenance and Adventure Trails is going to make that happen. As a group of concerned locals who have driven these roads for many years, we endorse the much-needed maintenance and repair work that will be done with this funding. Thanks Eastern Sierra 4X4 Club - 4/13/2024

We are a part of the Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club and we use the many trails at our disposal. One of our favorites is the Coyote Flats often. Since we access it throughout the year we will try our best to keep it accesible despite the times where weather or people who damage the trail. Our county has beautiful areas to see and have adventures but if they are not maintained we all lose out. We will go with other members of our group our last time being on March 23rd for about a four hour period. Joanna Diener - 4/13/2024

I / we have been enjoying the Coyote Valley area since the late 60's using two wheel and four wheel to access this area. The Coyote Valley road in recent years has seen considerable damage due to heavy rain and snowfall making impassible at times. Thanks to private citizens in recent times the road has been made safe and passable. It would be beneficial to implement a annual or semi-annual maintenance program as this road provides access for vehicles driven or ridden by all age groups. This also gives access this area for persons with physical impairments or challenges. This is a beautiful area that should be enjoyed by all for scenic, hunting, fishing and camping uses. By awarding a grant to the ATS it would give the actual citizens that use this area and understand what it requires to maintain it. Coyote is one of the few vehicle accessible gems of the Sierras, lets keep it open! On another note a little farther north is the Sand Canyon access road to Wheeler Ridge. It too has been closed due to heavy winters runoff. This road also gives path to breathtaking views of the Rock Creek Canyon and Mountain top views down to the Round Valley. This is another area that would benefit from an annual maintenance program. This would provide recreation for Campers, hikers, hunters, 4x4's, motorcycles and site-seers. Thank you for considering and reviewing these comments, Dennis Vetter Dennis Vetter - 4/17/2024

I have been a volunteer on the Coyote trails crew for a few years and have seen the wonderful work this group does! More resources would have a big impact on the projects that keep the wonderful Eastern Sierras accessible to the public. People from all over California and the United states and Europe come to Inyo county for our great outdoor activities. Our trail system is particularly important for our Wounded Warriors and veterans as well as our senior citizens. The town of Bishop calls itself " a small town with a big backyard ". Help us keep this outdoor experience available to all! John Atkins - 4/18/2024

This project will restore historic access to an outstanding area used by locals and many out of town visitors, particularly in the summer time. The main entrance road is a masterpiece of work constructed by Mr. Peterson for access to his mine and the Peterson Mill. There is also grazing and a little private property on the flat. With the propose support of some real dirt moving maintenance equipment, the outdoor experience for many enthusiasts can be greatly improved. Jon Patzer - 4/21/2024

Please allow the roads and access to Coyote area to be improved and accessible. I usually make a couple of trips per summer to fish, enjoy nature and hike. I don’t hardly see any trash or destruction of property including trails and any I do I clean up. Please leave Coyote open it’s a beautiful place and enjoyed by many. Michael Conley - 4/25/2024

I would like to see road repairs at Coyote for all those that live in the Easter Sierra. Jack Dahlstrom - 4/28/2024

Certainly! Here's a formatted version of your comment: Subject: Support for Grant Application: Maintenance of Coyote Flat Road and Inyo National Forest Area Dear [Grant Committee], I am writing to express my full support for the grant application aimed at maintaining Coyote Flat Road and the surrounding area in the Inyo National Forest. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a noticeable increase in outdoor recreation, which is undoubtedly positive. However, this surge in visitors has taken its toll on our precious forest, roads, and natural resources. Based on my observations, the number of visitors to these remote areas has escalated dramatically, possibly by a factor of 10 to 20. Unfortunately, the land agencies responsible for their upkeep lack the necessary resources to adequately maintain these areas without the assistance of volunteers. If we fail to take action, there is a significant risk that these areas will deteriorate to the point where the land agencies will have no choice but to close them off to the public. It is essential to preserve access to these natural treasures for everyone to enjoy. Therefore, I urge you to consider the importance of this grant application and its potential impact on preserving our environment and ensuring continued public access to these invaluable natural resources. Thank you, Scott Stoner Scott Stoner - 5/1/2024

I fully support the grant request from Adventure Trail System of the Eastern Sierra. The group is working together with other OHV enthusiasts to ensure routes stay open to motorized travel. This group is working with volunteers throughout the region and taking on significant work projects to manage and maintain this important trail system. In recent times it is falling on off-road volunteers to take on the maintenance that used to be done by federal management agencies. This undertaking is not an easy task, but is a perfect use for the money in the OHV Trust Fund. I extend my admiration to the Adventure Trail System of the Eastern Sierra for working with other enthusiast in the area to keep these important trails systems open to OHV travel. Amy Granat - 5/2/2024

I would like to comment on the Adventure Trail System of the Eastern Sierra Inc grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. This application is exactly why nonprofits are allowed to apply for these grants. I applaud your initiative and wish you the best of luck on the project. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2024

Butte County Sheriff's Search and Rescue, Inc.

Central Coast Trail Riders Association

I would like to comment on Central Coast Trail Riders Association grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle association. The forest and OHV community is fortunate to have the Central Coast Trail Riders Association working on this trail system. This project is exactly what the grant program is designed for and we appreciate the efforts to provide high quality recreation. Keep up the good work, Ed Stovin Ed Stovin - 4/28/2024

Desert Group Search and Rescue Volunteer, Inc.

I would like to comment on the Desert Group Search and Rescue Volunteer, Inc grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle association. I am curious, do you provide support for races or other organized activities? I see you are asking for quite a bit of medical equipment. I would like to see some information about how many times you help people and what kind of injuries and circumstances are involved. Can you share data from your work? Also, how do people find you? I don't see a website with your name, only a Facebook page. I just called the phone number on your Facebook page at 11:00am on Sunday April 28th and got no answer. I then emailed info@desertsar.org and the message was kicked back as undeliverable. Are you really in business? How do people get ahold of you in an emergency? Ed Stovin Ed Stovin - 4/28/2024

I just spoke to Allen, they appear to be legit, they just need to update their Facebook page. He said they get referred to from 911, but I am not going to call that without a real emergency. I couldn't find the number of responses they make on the application, maybe you can add that somewhere near the top so we know what you are capable of. Thanks for being so helpful to our OHV community and I hope I never need you out there. Ed Stovin Ed Stovin - 4/28/2024

Desert Tortoise Preserve Committee, Inc.

Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center

Please fund this grant for Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center- they provide a valuable and life saving resource. Tim Goodrich - 3/25/2024

I have lived in Mono County and skied in the Eastern Sierra backcountry since 1983. As noted in this application, snowmobile use has increased exponentially since then. Snowmobilers are not only using these machines as their form of recreation, but many are ridden by skiers and snowboarders using them to quickly access the backcountry. As mentioned in this application, avalanches involving snowmobiles are often fatal because of the weight these machines place on the snow slope. I would also like to add that they are often using terrain already populated with backcountry skiers and boarders. I am very concerned that as a group, many users do not have sufficient avalanche training. Consequently, I believe that the educational outreach proposed in this grant will prevent injury to snowmobilers AND the other people recreating in the vicinity. The Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center is a highly regarded, professional organization that many backcountry users rely on to help them make informed decisions before heading out on tours. They are more than capable of doing the reach-out and tailoring of curriculum to meet the needs of the OHV community. I encourage you to fund this grant as written. Thank you. Jeanne Oakeshott - 4/1/2024

ESAC empowers me with invaluable knowledge to venture into the backcountry in the winter to ski. They're an asset to the outdoor community and I'm sure avalanche adjacent communities like Aspendell as well. I'm happy to see them funded and am grateful for their contribution. Trey French - 4/22/2024

Friends of the Bridgeport Avalanche Center

The FOBAC is instrumental in maintaining an avalanche forecast for motorized users of the Bridgeport Winter Recreation Area. In the winter, because of the very long approach over snow, that area is realistically only accessible to motorized users, and there's significant exposure to avalanche terrain. Besides the avalanche forecast, users would benefit greatly from formal avalanche training. Several avalanche accidents have occured recently in the US involving motorized users without formal training, and without avalanche rescue gear or the knowledge to use it. This project proposed by the FOBAC could literally save lives. Travis Feist - 3/30/2024

Winter Wildlands Alliance (WWA) is in strong support of grant goals submitted by the Friends of the Bridgeport Avalanche Center that pertain to the popular winter recreation area surrounding Sonora Pass, off of Highway 108. As stated in the grant proposal, this multi-use trailhead has experienced extremely high use in winter, with the OSV area being adjacent to wilderness. We echo that the included project goals for this area are very important. Project goals include maintaining and installing signs and boundary markers, kiosk information, educating visitors, and minimizing conflicts and natural resource impacts. WWA has a winter “Backcountry Ambassador” program consisting of volunteers that help to educate winter recreationists and assist in signage maintenance on USFS lands, including a volunteer on the western portion of the Stanislaus NF. We would like to see the expansion of these types of programs, and therefore support the proposal for FOBAC to implement a volunteer snowmobile ambassador program. Their goals to educate users on etiquette and safety in the field, and help to foster positive relationships between motorized and non-motorized backcountry users are critical for winter recreation management in California. WWA would be also interested in sharing what we’ve learned from our winter volunteer work on the Stanislaus when FOBAC initiates their program. The Stanislaus is serving as a successful example of how implementation after OSV planning can lead to increased support for Forest Service goals, and improved winter recreation for everyone. This additional funding would help to reinforce that, and see those implementation goals achieved across the forest. WWA has been working with Snowlands and Tread Lightly to create and install signage for the western portion of the Stanislaus NF, and there remains a significant need for these materials to be funded and created for the eastern portion of the forest. We would hope to see FOBAC’s materials consistent with those being designed for the rest of the forest by working with Stanislaus NF staff and partners, to ensure cohesive recreation materials forestwide. Thank you for your consideration of our comments. We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with public agencies and winter recreation stakeholders to help develop equitable and balanced recreation opportunities. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. For more information, contact Kelly Bessem, WWA California Stewardship Manager OR Hilary Eisen, WWA Policy Director: heisen@winterwildlands.org Kelly Bessem, Winter Wildlands Alliance - 5/6/2024

Friends of El Mirage

The RoughWheelers Off Road Club has noticed numerous issues with metal fencing being loosened and/or cut and recommend provisions be added to the proposal to allow for the purchase of a welder and associated supplies. Such an addition would allow the Trail crew to reenforce sections of cable fencing that are being regularly loosened by people wishing to circumvent the designated entrance to access the lake bed when it is closed. Such intrusions are causing significant damage to the surface of the lakebed. Nathan Asdourian - 3/13/2024

Please also include a portable welder to weld closed the cable ends that circumvent the OHV area. It seems the cable ends are consistently being removed so some folks can gain free access to the site. Robert Ettleman - 3/27/2024

"I understand that FOEM uses its Honda Pioneer UTV to perform habitat monitoring, but it is not listed in the Project Cost Estimate. I urge the applicant to add this equipment use to its application." Robert Ettleman - 4/23/2024

Friends of Jawbone

"I understand that FOJ's heavy equipment operators use 4x4 pickup trucks for transportation to and from the grader and skip loader, but it does not appear to be included in the Project Cost Estimate. I urge the application to add this equipment use to its application." Robert Ettleman - 4/23/2024

I would like to comment on the Friends of Jawbone grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. This is a great group of grants to help this much loved area. How did you get an archaeologist/biologist to work for $45 per hour? In GO 4 - 2 you have $75000 for 4X4 trucks. I am not clear if you own these and mean to use them as match or you rent them to use. Same with the auger, it looks like you own it and want to use it for match, but have it in the grant column. It says "We are unable to rent truck and auger systems that are specifically designed like that we use, so we based our rate on the most comparable type vehicle available." Same with the motor grader, skip loader and water truck. Are these grant or match? Updating Owlshead is great, I use the app personally and like how it works. Thanks for all your hard work, Ed Stovin Ed Stovin - 4/28/2024

Considering how essential the ESRI platform is for the execution of this grant project, I believe that more OHMVR grant funding should be requested for the GIS software. The ESRI Small Non-Profit Program is highly competitive and missing out on that award would negatively affect your OHMVR grant project. Sam Easley - 4/28/2024

Being a recreational user of the desert since childhood, I would like to commend the Friends of Jawbone on their efforts to enhance and maintain desert recreational opportunities along with preserving the natural environment that continues to draw me to unique landscape and recreational opportunities that it provides. In my review of the Friends of Jawbone's Ground Operations and Restoration Grant Applications, I understand that they collect a lot of data for work planning and monitoring purposes. But, I did not find reference to the computer software programs they use or a cost associated with keeping these programs updated. I recommend that this information be added to these grant requests. Additionally, since they work closely with the BLM, this software should be compatible with the BLM so that both organizations can share information between each other. The more individuals and volunteers, along with the necessary equipment, the better chance of keeping this area healthy, clean and open to the public for their enjoyment and preservation. Thank you for your consideration into my public comment on making sure there is the proper software available to those volunteers and agencies that need it to better do their jobs. Rodney Walters Rodney Walters - 5/6/2024

Huntington Lake Volunteer Fire Department

Based on actual quotes from Zoll the amount entered for 2 defibrillators is too low. The price for two defibrillators together with the batteries and pads necessary to make them functional is closer to $8,500. While hand-held portable radios are essential for off highway trail monitoring and rescues, you also need to have a higher wattage mobile radio installed on the Polaris side-by-side. This is critical when working on remote routes when the lower wattage portables cannot "hit the repeater"! Christopher Donnelly - 3/9/2024

My family and I are long time year round users of cabins at Huntington Lake. The Huntington Lake Volunteer Fire Department does great work supporting OHV recreation in the High Sierra Off-Highway routes all year around. In reviewing their application for equipment, I went on line to check the cost of defibrillators and believe the requested amount is too low. The cost of two defibrillators should be closer to $9,000. We so appreciate your support of the Huntington Lake Volunteer Fire Department. Phyllis Thomas Phyllis G. Thomas - 3/21/2024

Kingsburg 4 Wheel Drive Club

Lassen Land and Trails Trust

Outdoor recreation is a proven economic stimulator throughout the country and especially in this part of Northern California. Any support, access to or promotion of outdoor recreation is and will continue to be an appropriate use of government/public funds. This maintenance project is essential to the area as it provides use of existing infrastructure and allows appropriate access to the area. The Lassen Land and Trail Trust is a trusted entity with a proven track record of producing quality results in the public interest. Any opposition to the project is unsubstantiated, shortsighted and inappropriate. It has been proven that outdoor recreation, motorized and non-motorized, has occurred in the area prior to any official designations. Any argument that suggests that providing access to this public land will have any negative effects is unfounded, as the public has already accessed and is intent on using the land. This project is aimed at providing equal and reliable access to all land users, and ensuring proper public safety through signage and trail maintenance. Vast open natural spaces are one of the most valuable resources in the area, controlled, safe, reliable public access is the best way to protect this resource from misuse and ensure economic success of the surrounding communities. I urge that this project is funded, and let the public recreate! christopher j atkinson - 3/9/2024

Hi I'm very excited about this rail trail and am a regular user of the bizz johnson trail, which is a true gem. I fully support the enhancements and maintenance. I am disappointed that motorized vehicles are authorized, however. In my experience, few will abide the 25 mph speed limit, and the manner in which they are typically driven (always burning out etc.) they cause significant trail damage, ruts, and degradation of the surface. Adiitionally the noise is a stressor for wildlife and people alike. I would advocate for not allowing motorized vehicle usage thank you. Jon Miller - 4/11/2024

I am strongly in favor of maintaining the Mododc Line as regional trail. This trail is a gem and should be kept open and safe for recreation. It provides unparalleled access to the most scenic areas in Northern California and allow recreationists an unmatched wilderness experience. The Lassen Land and Trails Trust has done a great job in securing the trail for a diverse public. I urge the CA Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Rcereation to fully fund this important maintennace project. Steve Kohlmann - 4/22/2024

Los Padres Forest Association

Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association

Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority

Plumas County Search and Rescue

Project Heal the Land

Sierra Avalanche Center

This program is amazing. I've lost 3 friends to avalanches and I think everyone who is out in the snow should consider taking a class. We get deep snow in Tahoe and being smart is important. Keep it up! Sean Regan - 3/30/2024

Could not have taken a better avalanche awareness course. Great instruction by passionate teachers and most importantly, it quickly became evident that I had been riding into very unsafe areas before taking the course. Hands down the best thing I could have done to ensure the safety of the people I care the most about while on the snow. I can honestly say these courses saved my life and the ones I ride with. jeb v durgin - 4/1/2024

I took a motorized snowmobile course from the Sierra Avalanche Center this season. The information that I learned was priceless. I was very mis-informed before the class in thinking that my old and outdated beacon and my avalanche pack made me safe from an avalanche. I feel much more prepared in making good decisions for myself and my group now. I also feel confident that I could save a life if in that situation now. I thank you so very much for the class and hope that you will continue offering in the future so more people can learn and benefit from the program. Melissa Wagner - 4/1/2024

Sierra Avalanche Center provides a vital resource for us back country snowmobilers so that we can mitigate our exposure to current avalanche risks. The training that I received helped me tremendously in understanding avalanche forecasts, proper group management, and observing signs of instability. The effort from their team in creating avalanche forecasts helps guide all back country tourers so that we can make informed choices about our traveling routes for the day. I fully support their mission of creating awareness and safety for accessing back country areas within the Tahoe National Forrest. Erik Stroing - 4/9/2024

Great program to advance snowmobile education safety and awareness for a sport that brings so much life into the mountain communities! Gianmarco Negrisoli - 4/22/2024

Consider offering more Level 1 classes since they fill quickly. Katharine Miller - 4/25/2024

Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship

I am extremely supportive of the G24 Ground Operations funding for trail maintenance in the Downieville OHV system. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has a rich history of maintaining this critical trail system, providing safe recreation opportunities for thousands of OHV trail users. This is a famous trail system that will be utilized heavily every year, necessitating annual maintenance to provide safe recreation opportunities. This trail system is also vital to the local economy. Downieville is now known as a mountain biking town and the businesses rely on the income from trail users to make their living. Supporting the G24 funding means supporting Downieville and maintaining the magic it is known for. Kyle Stone - 3/5/2024

Hello, SBTS does outstanding work and involves many volunteers, such as myself. This grant will go along way to maintain the trail systems and benefit the local community and citizens of CA for recreation in the lost sierra. please fund this grant. Thanks, Alan Alan Walls - 3/7/2024

the Downieville trails are my favourite in the world. I Love them. I love the bears and the deer and the wild rugged awesome everything of it. the trails must be open to public use for us all. the trails are a vital part of the local economic growth and Sierra country. needs every help it can get. please support our trails. Martin Duggan - 3/7/2024

I use the Downieville trail system several times a year. Hiking and motorbiking the area. This results is economic support to the local businesses. I also volenteer with one of the trail work events to give back to this amazing system. I look forward to more trail and more memories in and around Downieville. Jim Dallas - 3/7/2024

To whom it may concern: I fully support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship's(SBTS) CA-OHV application for the Downieville trail system grant. With an approved grant. SBTS can continue to support and create recreation opportunities for visitors and locals, local employment, sustainable trail system that requires less maintenance and keep trails open, safe all the while protecting the watershed. Please award SBTS this grant. Thank you, Martin Scheel Martin Scheel - 3/11/2024

The Sierra Butte Trail stewardship has been a great economical bone to this area. Helping employee locals with building trails and getting out to nature has been a lifesaver to many of those who live there. Andy Gedeon - 3/22/2024

I support this grant Abe Haen - 3/22/2024

The work the trail stewardship does is critical for our region of the Sierra Mountains. They are creating jobs, fostering education, and driving tourism and economic commerce throughout a region that greatly needs all of these. Their work with local, state, and federal agencies also helps ensure an effective partnership between all the caretakers.of the land for future generations to come. Please provide this grant to them so they can keep delivering their incredible mission! Ben Edwards - 3/22/2024

I used to work for Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS), and witnessed first hand how impactful this organization, and the trails they create/maintain, are for the surrounding communities. It is such a resource to have accessible, maintained, mapped out trails! Not only does it draw revenue to the communities, as bikers from all over now make their way to these communities to ride and participate in events (also hosted by SBTS).It is also a joy for bikers in the local communities to have such easy access to these trails. Especially as the areas in which SBTS builds trails, are in very small towns, surrounded by wilderness.It encourages people to get outside and ride bikes on trails! Which is healthy, family friendly, and builds community.SBTS also hires people from within the community to do the trail work, and pays a liveable wage! In these smaller, impoverished towns, that is a great resource, and they deserve this grant! Renee Mattingly - 3/22/2024

As a resident of Plumas County the Downieville trail network is vital to economic stability for residents. They also provide an outlet for young teens and family to enjoy bike riding and hikes. Any investment is a good idea. Paul Jauregui - 3/23/2024

The SBTS has an excellent history of providing stellar work on maintaining the extensive network of trails in our region and supporting the organization to continue their activities would be a very good investment of public funds. Carl Butz - 3/27/2024

I regularly ride these trails via dirt bike, and when I do we often have friends travel from out of the region to join us, because they're known as some of the best in the US. The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is doing a great job of building and maintaining motorized trails, especially in an era when motorized singletrack is so difficult for land managers to build and maintain. Because they're multi use, they encourage other user groups to share public land with motorized users - another important outcome of this project. I fully support it! Travis Feist - 3/30/2024

The Sierra Butte Trail stewardship projects are very important for local economies and recreation in general. I use these trails every summer and share them with family and friends. We also spend money in the local communities. Erik Forberg - 4/24/2024

As long-time resident of northern California (resident of SF for past 35 years) and a frequent visitor (along with my wife, son and daughter) to the Sierra Buttes/Downieville area, I wanted to express my strong support for this grant proposal. Start with the fact that the SBTS organization is a first rate organization that is committed to the responsible and thoughtful development of single track trails for both motorized and non-motorized two wheeled recreation in the Sierra Buttes/Downieville area. They have a long history of responsible stewardship of the network of trails and know exactly where to put their resources to make best use of the grant. Second, I have ridden these trails countless times on both my off-road motorcycle and on my Mt. Bike and can attest to the fact that the motorized single track in the Downieville Trail System is some of the best single track riding in northern California. Point being, that this area is deserving of funding and resources to preserve the quality and character of the trails. Third, the Downieville Trail System is a key contributor to the economic vitality of Downieville, Sierra City and Graeagle and the broader Lakes Basin area. The quality of the riding (both motorized and non-motorized) draws thousands of people to the area during the summer and fall seasons year in and year out. Investing in the maintenance of these trails is an investment in the economic well being of the entire area. Please consider my comments and those of others as you consider this grant request. Given the organization involved and trail system in question, you couldn't make a better investment. Fred Benz - 5/2/2024

We certainly need to keep these trails updated and safe. They bring valuable economic opportunity to the region, provides recreation for locals and visitors alike while also being mindful of the nature and watershed. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has proved themselves worthy of this grant and fully deserve it. Max Godino - 5/6/2024

These trails greatly improve quality of life for locals & visitors! They create employment opportunities & ensure sustainable trails for future generations! The SBTS is crucial to Sierra and Plumas counties for recreation & beyond! Rachel Dobronyi - 5/6/2024

Hi! I'm posting in support of the SBTS programs. They're creating employment as well as offering recreational activities for locals and visitors (tourist $ is critical for these small towns). Thanks! DOUG MANN - 5/6/2024

I am writing this in full support of the ground operation grant and plan for building and maintenance of motorized use trails. As a resident of Truckee my household love the current and planned multiuse trails in the lost Sierra. SBTS is a great organization and an incredible asset to our region! Andy Bell - 5/6/2024

Southern California Mountains Foundation

The Living Desert

Joshua Tree National Park supports The Living Desert's proposal for a comprehensive approach to address illegal off-highway vehicle (OHV) activities within Joshua Tree National Park (JTNP) through two rounds of scientific studies and behavioral change outreach strategies. The primary objective of this project is to reduce illegal OHV disturbances and provide evidence-based insights for effective management action. Illegal OHV disturbances degrade habitats and cause direct mortality of desert tortoise, a threatened species protected by the Endangered Species Act. Joshua Tree National Park manages some of the best protected habitat for the desert tortoise and these habitats would benefit in the reduction and elimination of illegal OHV use. The Park Service looks forward to collaborating with The Living Desert to reduce illegal OHV use through the use of social science strategies. Michael Vamstad - 4/30/2024

Tread Lightly!, Inc.

I support the majority of items in the Tread LIghtly! Education and Safety Grant application. Tread Lightly! plays an important role in educating OHV enthusiasts about the importance of employing good land stewardship practices as they travel off-road. The organization needs money and manpower to accomplish this very important goal. However, I'm not convinced about the need for OHV Trust Fund grants to pay for a storage locker. It would seem that it is possible for the organization to look into long -term funding for storage facilities in each areas where it is active, and that expense be borne by the organization, rather than come from the OHV Trust Fund. Please explain why the OHV Trust Fund should fund this expense. Amy Granat - 5/2/2024

I may come to support the grant request from Tread Lightly! that includes trail signage, but as the current signage have had too little input from off-road enthusiasts, I cannot yet support this aspect of the grant application. I have heard rave reviews from environmental organizations about how great it is to work with Tread Lightly! on signage, but have yet to hear the same from off-road and over-snow enthusiasts. Much more outreach needs to be made by Tread Lightly! with the off-road community before I can support the use of the OHV Trust Funds to be used for signage that works against the OHV and OSV communities, rather than to benefit the OHV and OSV communities. Amy Granat - 5/2/2024

I would like to comment on the Tread Lightly grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. I was a little confused at first when I read the application. I didn't understand buying materials without having a specific location to use it. I spoke to Branden today at the trail day in the Cleveland National Forest and he said that they want to be ready to go if/when they find an area in need. I know Tread Lightly is engaged in helping OHV, as I have gotten several small grants from Tread Lightly to cover costs of cleanups in OHV areas. By having money in the bank, ready to spend, they can fix problems before they become bigger. I imagine money that is not used would be returned, so please fund this grant and let Tread Lightly lead us to swift resolution to the coming, unforeseen, problems. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2024

Tuleyome

Urban Corps of San Diego County

Valley Outdoors

Hello, 30 year resident of the eastern sierra and writin today in support of the ground ops grant for Valley Outdoors. The Inyo nf needs help maintaining its roads because the shrinking engineering dept cant do it on its own. Regrading and improving 180 dips and waterbars in critical areas will strengthen the roads ability to withstand storms, thereby reducing the need for post storm maintenance. The local jeep club and others eagerly support the efforts of Valley Outdoors and ask for your consideration of this grant. Greg Weirick Greg Weirick - 3/30/2024

This proposal should be funded. Our area 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. Proper and efficient monitoring, maintenance and repair of level 2 roads is essential for better resource management and they provide a rewarding OHV experience for our visitors. The winter of 2023 did a huge amount of damage to many roads in our area and made many roads unsafe, to the point where they were closed by Inyo National Forest. INF did not have the resources to repair the damage, so volunteer groups, like Valley Outdoors, got together to fix the damage and reopen the road. Now there needs to be consistent maintenance and Valley Outdoors is going to make that happen. As an individual who has patrolled and driven these roads for over 30 years, I endorse the much-needed maintenance and repair work that will be done with this funding. Thanks Pat Woods - 3/30/2024

This grant request should be funded. Valley Outdoors (VO) participants are passionate about not only using OHV routes for recreation but also preserving the land to which they provide access. This is a “grass roots” organization (pun intended) that really wants to “do the right thing” to promote responsible recreation opportunities on our public lands while protecting our natural resources for the generations to come. VO is heavily supported by locals, many of whom live in Inyo and Mono Counties specifically to enjoy the recreational opportunities here. The volunteers and leadership of VO are enthusiastic and motivated to support this project. “The locals” are encouraged by the potential to have a meaningful partnership with the INF and other agencies that will enable us to help maintain and preserve recreational opportunities we so greatly cherish. Funding this grant will enable the organizational infrastructure so all of us, locals, agencies, and visitors to coordinate collaborative efforts to get the greatest overall benefit from our efforts. John Shepherd - 4/10/2024

This proposal should be funded. As a member of the ES4WD Club, a volunteer group, the conditions and accessibility of our roads and trails are essential to our outdoor recreating. For both local and non-local OHV enthusiasts. When tourist recreate on our public lands they don't always use good judgement and respect for our public lands. Monitoring, repairs and maintenance of the roads is paramount to help ensure safe enjoyment of all the Eastern Sierra has to offer. Funding of the Grant will help with repairs and maintenance and ensure the continuation of access and enjoyment on our public lands. Thank you. Debby Hidalgo - 4/12/2024

THIS GRANT COMMENT IS FROM THE EASTERN SIERRA 4X4 CLUB Submitted by Pat Woods The Eastern Sierra 4x4 Club is based out of Bishop, CA. We have over 75 members and are committed to sustainable land use and good off-roading practices. We are active in our community and communicate closely with government land management agencies. We take pride in our volunteer support to the Inyo National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management. The Eastern Sierra 4WD Club takes responsibility for promoting safe and sane four wheeling. Our club is open to anyone who supports our goals and is interested in exploring our wonderful area. We support Conservation with Utilization and TREAD LIGHTLY practices. This proposal should be funded. Our area 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. Proper and efficient monitoring, maintenance and repair of level 2 roads is essential for better resource management and they provide a rewarding OHV experience for our visitors. The winter of 2022/23 did a huge amount of damage to many roads in our area and made many roads unsafe, to the point where they were closed by Inyo National Forest. INF did not have the resources to repair the damage, so volunteer groups, like Valley Outdoors, got together to fix the damage and reopen the roads. Now there needs to be consistent maintenance and Valley Outdoors is going to make that happen. As a group of concerned locals who have driven these roads for many years, we endorse the much-needed maintenance and repair work that will be done with this funding. Thanks Eastern Sierra 4X4 Club - 4/13/2024

I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the Valley Outdoors grant application. As a resident of the Eastern Sierra, I am intimately familiar with the vast landscapes of the Inyo National Forest and the BLM lands that surround it. My family and I regularly engage in a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, off-roading, birdwatching, photography, and more. Access to these recreational opportunities is essential for our community's well-being and our enjoyment of the natural beauty that surrounds us. However, the increased traffic stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and the influence of social media have taken a toll on the roads that provide access to these areas. Shockingly, some roads have even been closed for the first time in my 14 years of living in the area. It is clear that the land agencies responsible for managing these resources are struggling to cope with the maintenance demands imposed by the surge in visitors. Without adequate resources, the deterioration of roads and access points will only continue, jeopardizing the outdoor experiences that families like mine cherish. Volunteers play a crucial role in bridging this gap and ensuring that our public lands remain open and accessible to all. However, they cannot do it alone. Funding support is essential to provide the necessary resources for maintaining infrastructure, preserving natural habitats, and facilitating outdoor recreation opportunities. I urge you to consider the significance of the Valley Outdoors grant application and its potential to safeguard our public lands for future generations. By investing in this initiative, we can preserve the beauty of our landscapes and continue to foster a deep connection with nature for families across the region. Scott Stoner - 5/1/2024

Valley Outdoors (VO) is a relatively newly established 501c3 that is gaining immense popularity and momentum with people who want to volunteer with VO to improve access to public lands. VO was established as just a couple of buddies throwing rocks into washed out roads, and it has grown in less than two years to a fully credentialed organization. It is managed by a board which consists of individuals representing different types of outdoor recreation. One member is OHV oriented. Another is into trail running and climbing, and another is a fishing and hunting enthusiast. The by laws clearly state that a board must be composed of people who represent a sweeping part of outdoor recreation. All outdoors people have the same common objective: To get to their places of recreation easily and without challenges. This is where VO steps in. VO works with BLM, USFS, and the Department of Water and Power Los Angeles to coordinate events for volunteers to rehabilitate public land and make it better for all people. The major governmental organizations mentioned here have the utmost profound respect for VO since VO is taking care of their land. Volunteers from far and near travel to partake in events. I have personally been a part of two volunteer events. One was to restore old signage to beautify trail identification. Another was to rebuild a section of BLM land that was damaged. Heavy rains washed out a main dirt road, and users created a second dirt road next to it. Within the time of one morning, about a dozen VO volunteers vertical mulched the second road that didn't belong there, and fixed the original road. Within a few hours, the volunteers made the land look like it was prior to the abuse. On the same day, other volunteers removed an illegal single track trail by vertical mulching the land. These are a couple of projects of several that VO organizes. VO is also attracting the attention of other volunteers stepping up behind the scenes helping with anything from webpage maintenance to social media support. People want to help. VO is present at public events that are environmentally centered. You will find VO alongside booths of people representing BLM, USFS, DFW, Trout Unlimited, Eastern Sierra Land Trust, Caltrout, Tread Lightly, etc. The list continues. VO should absolutely be funded for this grant so they can continue to support the public organizations of BLM, USFS, and LADWP in their efforts. VO also is beginning an educational component of their organizaton as well. It's worth every dollar, and more. Chris Leonard - 5/2/2024

I would like to comment on the California Valley Outdoors grant application on behalf of the California Off Road Vehicle Association. It looks like Calif Valley Outdoors is out to do great things for OHV. Thank you! I didn't see any mention of agreements between your nonprofit and the agencies whose land you are working on. I am sure you are on the up and up, but it would be reasuring to hear that the BLM and Forests know you are working there and are happy about it. I see bobcats for rent in my area for $300 a day, $1070 per week. Seems like $1050 per day is a lot. I think you should shop around for a better deal. You say you want to push a 10ft dozer blade with a bobcat, are you sure that is right? That is pretty big for a bobcat. Maybe transportation adds to it, but you should really examine bobcat costs. Good luck with your projects and if CORVA or myself can help you, please let us know. Ed Stovin - 5/4/2024