G25 Public Comments to Preliminary Applications

Throughout the area managed by the Barstow BLM there are checkerboard lands with alternating sections of public and private property. Hundreds of BLM-designated routes cross private property in violation of the Designation Criteria in the Code of Federal Regulations (43 CFR 8342.1). Trespass on private property is a regular occurrence in this area. In this grant application Barstow BLM law enforcement acknowledges that they are incapable of controlling trespass on private property. "Unlawful “off-route” travel, trespass/incursion and resource damage within sensitive desert habitats such as wilderness areas and Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) from unauthorized OHV use continues to occur frequently despite efforts to stop this illegal behavior through means such as signs, barriers, kiosks and maps which are widely distributed and available to the recreating public. Rehabilitated intrusions and structural improvements meant to educate and guide OHV travelers onto lawful routes of travel continue to be disregarded and destroyed by reckless OHV operation. ... Some OHV users continue to disregard signs and barriers in the surrounding “limited use” areas and on private lands." The same language has been used in the Barstow BLM law enforcement grant applications in every year since 2019, so this situation has persisted for at least 6 years. Under these conditions, it is time for the BLM to close OHV routes through private property in the interest of public safety and in order to protect private property from ongoing damage. Moreover, since the BLM has no easements or other legal interest in private property in this area, the BLM will have no legal defense in the event of any accidents on private property that involve OHV activity. The normal defenses against liability, such as Cal. Public Resources Code 5090.38 and Cal. Civil Code 846 only protect the owners of property. So any party injured as a result of OHV use on private property can sue the BLM under the FTCA (28 USC 1346(b)(1)). Steven Gjerstad - 3/7/2025

I would like to comment on these grant applications on behalf of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. These are three modest grant applications considering how much OHV opportunity is available in the area. This office is over worked and understaffed, so I hope these applications can be fully funded. The only part I question is the partnership with Friends of Dumont Dunes. They have no website and no recent posts on social media. If they are still in business, would you please put me in touch with them and if they are not, please consider removing from the application. If you need other partnerships, please contact me and I will do my best to coordinate some partnerships. Ed Stovin - 4/21/2025

The second paragraph of this grant proposal states that "[u]nlawful 'off-route' travel, trespass/incursion and resource damage ... from unauthorized OHV use continues to occur frequently despite efforts to stop this illegal behavior through means such as signs, barriers, kiosks and maps which are widely distributed and available to the recreating public. Rehabilitated intrusions and structural improvements meant to educate and guide OHV travelers onto lawful routes of travel continue to be disregarded and destroyed by reckless OHV operation." It also states in the fourth paragraph that "[s]ome OHV users continue to disregard signs and barriers in the surrounding 'limited use" areas and on private lands." My comments focus on the issue of trespass, particularly on private lands. In the 'limited use' areas vehicle travel is permitted only on designated routes. California Penal Code §602 defines numerous activities that constitute misdemeanor trespass. Penal Code §602(n) states that "[d]riving any vehicle, as defined in Section 670 of the Vehicle Code, upon real property belonging to, or lawfully occupied by, another and known not to be open to the general public, without the consent of the owner, the owner’s agent, or the person in lawful possession" is a misdemeanor. California Evidence Code §669 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; and (4) The person suffering the death or the injury to his person or property was one of the class of persons for whose protection the statute, ordinance, or regulation was adopted." This means that riders who trespass have 'per se' liability for accidents that occur to them while they are trespassing, and this is the case regardless of who owns the land where such an accident occurs. Throughout the 'checkerboard' lands in the western Mojave, the Barstow BLM has established OHV routes on approximately 1370 miles of private property, according to an estimate by the BLM in their 2019 FSEIS (p. 4-115). My next comment relates to the liability of the BLM for OHV accidents that occur on private property. First, the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA; 28 U.S.C. §1346(b)) describes liability of agencies of the U.S. government. The FTCA holds that U.S. government agencies have the same liability as "a private person, would be liable to the claimant in accordance with the law of the place where the act or omission occurred." For that reason, California liability law determines the extent of BLM liability for OHV accidents where the BLM has established OHV routes on private property. The first thing to note is that the BLM has no legal authority to establish OHV routes on private property (43 CFR §8342.1) and they acknowledge this in their 2019 FSEIS (p. 4-115). There are 3 primary ways that a property owner can protect themselves in a liability lawsuit by an injured OHV rider. One way is Public Resources Code §5090.38; a second is California Civil Code §846; the third is the doctrine of primary assumption of risk. None of these protections apply to a party that creates a dangerous condition on property belonging to others. Public Resources Code §5090.38 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 who is trespassing on property outside the system." PRC 5090.09 states that "'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." Note that where the BLM has designated OHV routes on private property, with no legal interest in that property, the statute does not protect the BLM since the BLM is not an "owner or other person having legal control of property." California Civil Code §846 states that "[a]n owner of any estate or any other interest in real property, whether possessory or nonpossessory, 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 those premises to persons entering for a recreational purpose." Once again, where the BLM has designated OHV routes on private property, with no legal interest in that property, the statute does not protect the BLM since the BLM is not an "owner of any [private] estate or any other interest in real [private] property, ... possessory or nonpossessory." The third protection against liability to trespassing OHV riders available to landowners is "primary assumption of risk." This doctrine has no statutory statement; rather it is a common law principle that is defined by case law. "Under the doctrine of primary assumption of risk, a defendant generally owes no duty to protect a participant in a sports or sport-like activity against risks that are inherent in that activity. ... [T]he nature of a sport is highly relevant in defining the duty of care owed by the particular defendant. Also relevant is 'the defendant's role in, or relationship to, the sport' engaged in by the participant. This is because certain relationships give rise to a 'duty to use due care not to increase the risks to a participant over and above those inherent in the sport.'” (Bertsch v. Mammoth Cmty. Water Dist., 247 Cal.App.4th 1201). The BLM, Friends of Jawbone, Transition Habitat Conservancy, and other organizations that encourage OHV riders to travel on OHV routes through private property do have an organized relationship with participants in OHV activities, and the BLM and these other organizations "increase the risks to a participant over and above those inherent in the sport" by designating OHV routes on private property without a legal right to do so (43 CFR §8342.1), by providing maps to OHV riders that show OHV routes on private property, and by failing to inform riders that they have established and promote OHV recreation on private property. On the other hand, no such liability accrues to landowners. "However, as our Supreme Court clarified in Parsons, where there is 'no ... relationship” between a defendant and the participant relating to the activity, 'a defendant generally has no duty to avoid increasing the risks inherent in [the] activity.'” (Bertsch v. Mammoth Cmty. Water Dist.) Property owners have no relationship to OHV riding on our properties, other than the fact the BLM has established routes through our properties without a legal basis for having done so and has refused to remove the routes when requests have been made that they do so. I make these comments because all parties involved, voluntarily or involuntarily, in OHV activity on private property need this information. Riders need to know that they are negligent when they have accidents on private property; the BLM and other organizations that support and promote OHV recreation on private property need to know that they share liability with trespassing riders where they promote OHV recreation; and landowners need to know that they are not liable for the consequences of trespass by OHV riders. Steven Gjerstad - 5/2/2025

I would like to comment on these grant applications on behalf of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. This grants does just what these funds are for, maintaining OHV opportunity. I am glad to see you partnering with groups like Eastern Sierra 4WD Club. These partnerships can make a big difference in successful land management. The quoted language from the application shows that the BLM are on the right track here. "Route monitoring is a critical component to successfully responding to maintenance needs. It's important that BLM quickly addresses issues to keep motorized users on routes and reduce resource damage." "Continued maintenance of the campgrounds focused on visitor satisfaction and experience is imperative to preserving natural and cultural resources by decreasing the amount of OHV dispersed camping." BLM, keep up the good work. I hope these grants can be funded to preserve recreation within the field office. Ed Stovin - 4/21/2025

I am writing to express my strong support for grant funding that benefits off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation in California, particularly in areas like Borrego Springs. Grant funding is essential for maintaining and improving OHV trails, promoting responsible recreation, and supporting local economies. Investing in projects that enhance trail access, safety, and sustainability not only benefits the OHV community but also helps preserve natural resources through managed and responsible use. I encourage the approval of grants that focus on trail maintenance, education programs, and environmental conservation, ensuring these spaces remain accessible and enjoyable for all. Thank you for considering public input during the grant evaluation process. I appreciate your efforts to support California’s vibrant OHV community. Dylan Dobey - 3/6/2025

Keep the trails open! Jason Morrison - 3/10/2025

I am a frequent visitor to the Borrego Springs area and use the OHV trails around. I heavily encourage the use of grants for this area to continue to maintain it's beauty, educate it's visitors and protect the OHV usage. Dylan Dobey - 3/11/2025

I would like to comment on El Centro BLM grant applications on behalf of the San Diego Off-Road Coalition. I see that out of 168,000 acres and 2302 miles of green sticker routes, El Centro BLM wants to grade only 1.6 miles of trail. I thought this was odd until I read it is only for the Backcountry Discovery Trail. I think D38 racing would like you to do more grading around Plaster City. BLM El Centro performs various activities to reduce dust, as is required by the Imperial County. The BLM should mention this in the grant application language to help justify expenses. The application says there are nine restrooms in Lark Canyon. Is that true? I thought there were only six. The San Diego Off Road Coalition is proud to be a partner to El Centro BLM and be mentioned in the Utilization of Partnerships section. The law enforcement application is straightforward and slightly modest. Modest because the Imperial County Sheriff application shows they patrol for OHV three times as many hours as the BLM here. The safety application very much needs to be fully funded, as there are many medical calls in this field office. Because of the large amount of opportunity and huge number of visitors, these applications ask for a modest amount of money and should be funded as fully as possible. Ed Stovin - 4/23/2025

I am very happy to be commenting on this grant today! We are fully supportive of this project and anticipate it will continue to fruition. In the area where points are scored, you can add the San Diego Off Road Coalition to Utilization of Partnerships and Stakeholders. Please invite us to each point where public input is sought. I have visited the area of this project several times and find it to be an ideal location for motorized recreation. This project will provide much needed recreational opportunities for residents of the communities in this region. State Parks staff, please fully fund this important grant to plan this wonderful project. Ed Stovin - 4/21/2025

Throughout the area managed by the Ridgecrest BLM there are checkerboard lands with alternating sections of public and private property. Hundreds of BLM-designated routes cross private property in violation of the Designation Criteria in the Code of Federal Regulations (43 CFR 8342.1). Trespass on private property is a regular occurrence in this area. In this grant application Ridgecrest BLM law enforcement acknowledges that they are incapable of controlling trespass on private property. "Unlawful 'off route' travel, trespass/incursion and resource damage within sensitive desert habitat continues to occur frequently despite efforts to stop this unauthorized activity. Sensitive habitat and unauthorized areas that have been and continue to be impacted include Wilderness Areas, Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC), critical desert tortoise habitat, and private lands. ... Restored incursions and hard barriers meant to educate and guide OHV travelers onto legal OHV routes continue to be disregarded and/or vandalized." Similar language has been used in the Barstow BLM law enforcement grant applications in every year since 2019, so this situation has persisted for at least 6 years. Under these conditions, it is time for the BLM to close OHV routes through private property in the interest of public safety and in order to protect private property from ongoing damage. Moreover, since the BLM has no easements or other legal interest in private property in this area, the BLM will have no legal defense in the event of any accidents on private property that involve OHV activity. The normal defenses against liability, such as Cal. Public Resources Code 5090.38 and Cal. Civil Code 846 only protect the owners of property. So any party injured as a result of OHV use on private property can sue the BLM under the FTCA (28 USC 1346(b)(1)). One of the most difficult parts of a personal injury lawsuit to prove is that the defendant was aware of the dangerous condition. The Ridgecrest law enforcement grant applications from the past seven years (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025) prove that the Ridgecrest BLM is clearly aware that they have created a dangerous condition by designating hundreds of OHV routes on private property, by allowing trespass to continue on private property, and by their failure to develop effective measures to control trespass on private property.Steven Gjerstad - 3/7/2025

I would like to comment on Ridgecrest BLM grant applications on behalf of the San Diego Off-Road Coalition. This is a good group of grants to manage this great off road vehicle region. I see you are looking to train officers to ride motorcycles. I agree that motorcycles are a great way for LE to move around desert areas. I noticed there are no requests for motorcycle safety gear. As a motorcyclist, I know an off road rider can easily spend over $1000 on safety gear and top of the line gear can cross $2000. Please make sure your officers have good helmets, boots, pants, gloves, goggles, knee guards, chest protectors, jackets and backpacks to keep your officers safe. You should consider vented gear for hot weather and warmer gear for colder weather. For your six trainees I would expect you to pay $6000 to $10,000 for gear. Stay safe out there! Ed Stovin - 4/23/2025

I recommend adjusting the Project Area description to be more clear and precise. It looks like there are 1.8 million acres in this project area - but there are only 17.6 miles (I'm assuming, looks like a typo here) of route maintenance activities, and then some other areas with vault toilet cleaning, signage, etc. Could the BLM please update the description to identify if this is all one project area, or if there are distinct project areas? Thank you! Sam Easley - 5/1/2025

The plan to distribute information to riders during scheduled events at entry points to Limited Use Areas and Open Areas is useful, but the message that riders should respect private property lacks specificity and urgency. Issues related to trespass on private property have been noted for years in past Law Enforcement grant applications from both the Ridgecrest and the Barstow Field Offices. For example the Ridgecrest LE grant application for 2024 states that "[u]nlawful 'off route' travel, trespass/incursion and resource damage within sensitive desert habitat such as Wilderness Areas, Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) and onto private lands continues to occur frequently despite efforts to stop this illegal behavior such as signs, barriers, kiosks and maps which are widely distributed and available to the recreating public." Similar or identical language is found in every Ridgecrest LE grant application going back to 2018. The current Ridgecrest LE grant application includes similar statements but with more elaboration. These statements always include the fact that "trespass/incursion and resource damage... onto private lands continues to occur frequently despite efforts to stop this illegal behavior such as signs, barriers, kiosks and maps." In other words, the message is not getting through to riders and the problem is not getting resolved with existing measures. A different approach is clearly needed. In the Township where my property is located (Township 31S, Range 42E) there are 36 sections, each of 640 acres, for a total of 23,040 acres. Private landowners have title to 11,400 acres or 49.5% of the land in the township. The BLM owns 10,720 acres or 46.5% of the land in this Township. The BLM acts as though it owns every acre in the Township, and refuses to close recreational OHV routes on private property in this area, even though BLM Law Enforcement knows that OHV "trespass/incursion and resource damage ... onto private lands continues to occur frequently" and in spite of the fact that the Designation Criteria (43 CFR §8342.1) do not permit the BLM to designate OHV recreation routes on private property. The State of California through the OHMVR Division grants programs uses its resources to promote activity that is based on a violation of 43 CFR §8342.1 and is known to lead to widespread trespass by OHV riders. This is very unlikely to survive a lawsuit against the BLM or against the OHMVR Division. So my suggestion is that when Ridgecrest BLM personnel contact riders in this area, they should tell the riders that in the area to the east of 395 between Red Mountain and Kramer Junction, there is more private property than BLM land. Once the issue of routes on private property and uncontrolled trespass from those routes reaches the federal courts, every route on private property in the state is vulnerable to closure. There are other more specific safety concerns with trespass on private property. It is obviously not safe for riders to trespass and there are specific statutes that attribute liability to trespassers who have accidents on private property. In the 'limited use' areas vehicle travel is permitted only on designated routes. California Penal Code §602 defined numerous activities that constitute misdemeanor trespass. Penal Code §602(n) states that "[d]riving any vehicle, as defined in Section 670 of the Vehicle Code, upon real property belonging to, or lawfully occupied by, another and known not to be open to the general public, without the consent of the owner, the owner’s agent, or the person in lawful possession" is a misdemeanor. California Evidence Code §669 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; and (4) The person suffering the death or the injury to his person or property was one of the class of persons for whose protection the statute, ordinance, or regulation was adopted." This means that riders who trespass have 'per se' liability for accidents that occur to them while they are trespassing, and this is the case regardless of who owns the land where such an accident occurs. Steven Gjerstad - 5/3/2025

The second paragraph of this grant proposal has been modified from the description in Ridgecrest law enforcement grant proposals in 2018 through 2024. I thought the descriptions in those years accurately portrayed conditions in the desert so I quote from the 2024 BLM Ridgecrest LE grant proposal: “[u]nlawful ‘off route’ travel, trespass/incursion and resource damage within sensitive desert habitat such as Wilderness Areas, Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) and onto private lands continues to occur frequently despite efforts to stop this illegal behavior such as signs, barriers, kiosks and maps which are widely distributed and available to the recreating public. Rehabilitated intrusions and structural improvements meant to educate and guide OHV travelers onto lawful routes of travel continue to be disregarded and destroyed by reckless OHV operation." My comments focus on the issue of trespass, particularly on private lands. My objective is to provide information to BLM law enforcement personnel and BLM officials regarding the problems that property owners in this area face with OHV trespass and some information that can be provided to riders to convey to them the serious implications of trespass. In the 'limited use' areas vehicle travel is permitted only on designated routes. California Penal Code §602 defined numerous activities that constitute misdemeanor trespass. Penal Code §602(n) states that "[d]riving any vehicle, as defined in Section 670 of the Vehicle Code, upon real property belonging to, or lawfully occupied by, another and known not to be open to the general public, without the consent of the owner, the owner’s agent, or the person in lawful possession" is a misdemeanor. California 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; and (4) The person suffering the death or the injury to his person or property was one of the class of persons for whose protection the statute, ordinance, or regulation was adopted." With reference to Evidence Code §669(a)(1), that element of the “failure of a person to exercise due care” is established by Penal Code 602(n) when a rider trespasses by leaving the numbered route. Riders who trespass have 'per se' liability for accidents that occur to them while they are trespassing, and this is the case regardless of who owns the land where such an accident occurs. Throughout the 'checkerboard' lands in the western Mojave, the Barstow BLM has established OHV routes on approximately 1370 miles of private property, according to an estimate by the BLM in their 2019 FSEIS (p. 4-115). My next comment relates to the liability of the BLM for OHV accidents that occur on private property. First, the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA; 28 U.S.C. §1346(b)) describes liability of agencies of the U.S. government. The FTCA holds that U.S. government agencies have the same liability as "a private person, would be liable to the claimant in accordance with the law of the place where the act or omission occurred." For that reason, California liability law determines the extent of BLM liability for OHV accidents where the BLM has established OHV routes on private property. The first thing to note is that the BLM has no legal authority to establish OHV routes on private property (43 CFR §8342.1) and they acknowledge this in their 2019 FSEIS (p. 4-115). Normally it is the property owner who can face a premises liability lawsuit, but on the checkboard lands in the western Mojave the BLM has created a dangerous condition by establishing routes on private property without permission from the landowners to do so, without legal authority to do so, and under conditions in which “trespass/incursion … onto private lands continues to occur frequently.” There are 3 primary ways that a property owner can protect themselves in a liability lawsuit by an injured OHV rider. One way is Public Resources Code §5090.38; a second is California Civil Code §846; the third is the doctrine of primary assumption of risk. None of these protections apply to a party that creates a dangerous condition on property belonging to others. Public Resources Code §5090.38 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 who is trespassing on property outside the system." PRC 5090.09 states that "'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." Note that where the BLM has designated OHV routes on private property, with no legal interest in that property, the statute does not protect the BLM since the BLM is not an "owner or other person having legal control of property." California Civil Code §846 states that "[a]n owner of any estate or any other interest in real property, whether possessory or nonpossessory, 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 those premises to persons entering for a recreational purpose." Once again, where the BLM has designated OHV routes on private property without landowners’ permission, with no legal interest in the properties, and knowing that trespass is a frequent occurrence, the statute does not protect the BLM since the BLM is not an "owner of any [private] estate or any other interest in real [private] property, ... possessory or nonpossessory." The third protection against liability to trespassing OHV riders available to landowners is "primary assumption of risk." This doctrine has no statutory statement; rather it is a common law principle that is defined by case law. According to the California Fourth Appellate District Court “[u]nder the doctrine of primary assumption of risk, a defendant generally owes no duty to protect a participant in a sports or sport-like activity against risks that are inherent in that activity. ... [T]he nature of a sport is highly relevant in defining the duty of care owed by the particular defendant. Also relevant is 'the defendant's role in, or relationship to, the sport' engaged in by the participant. This is because certain relationships give rise to a 'duty to use due care not to increase the risks to a participant over and above those inherent in the sport.'” (Bertsch v. Mammoth Cmty. Water Dist., 247 Cal.App.4th 1201). The BLM, Friends of Jawbone, Transition Habitat Conservancy, and other organizations that encourage OHV riders to travel on OHV routes through private property do have an organized relationship with participants in OHV activities, and the BLM and these other organizations "increase the risks to a participant over and above those inherent in the sport" by designating OHV routes on private property without a legal right to do so (43 CFR §8342.1), by providing maps to OHV riders that show OHV routes on private property, by failing to inform riders that they have established and promoted OHV recreation on private property, and by failing to obtain landowner permission to establish routes on private property. On the other hand, no such liability accrues to landowners: "However, as our Supreme Court clarified in Parsons, where there is 'no ... relationship” between a defendant and the participant relating to the activity, 'a defendant generally has no duty to avoid increasing the risks inherent in [the] activity.'” (Bertsch v. Mammoth Cmty. Water Dist.) Property owners have no relationship to OHV riding on our properties, other than the fact the BLM and its partner organizations have established routes through our properties without a legal basis for having done so. I make these comments because all parties involved, voluntarily or involuntarily, in OHV activity on private property need this information. Riders need to know that they are negligent when they have accidents on private property; the BLM and other organizations that support and promote OHV recreation on private property need to know that they share liability with trespassing riders where they promote OHV recreation without legal authority to do so; and landowners need to know that they are not liable for the consequences of trespass by OHV riders. Steven Gjerstad - 5/4/2025

Angeles forest for years has falsified its application and claimed areas that are closed off and not open to the public are available and in use in order to obtain this finding. This includes but is not limited to shortcut-rincon ohv rout 3n17 from forest boundaries to the west to Angeles crest to the east and lynx gulch road. These are the majority of recreational areas in this section of the forest and A.F. Claims them to be available when applying for money but does not allow the public to use them. This is currently the case with several years long temporary closures and for shortcut-ribbon, they currently claim it is open but if you obtain the gate code, they tell you only a portion is open because of a fallen dead tree that if it does exist should have been removed before the fire season. Kevin Anderson - 3/4/2025

I would like to comment on the Angeles National Forest grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off-Road Coalition. It looks like there are seven OHV staff, plus the soils, arch, biologist and botonist, is that correct? If ANF had a staff reduction, you might want to reflect that. I believe that if you get a comment, you can make adjustments to your application. It looks like on line item 12 you use inmates and use their time as match. This is the first I have heard of this and if it is permitted, I would like to see other areas use inmates for work and match. Going through this grant application, the line items hit on all the management needs for all the areas covered by Angeles National Forest. We hope this application can be fully funded. Ed Stovin - 4/29/2025

Hi, I would like to comment. I live within the Cleveland National Forest, near an OHV Park. I support the idea for a designated location for people to enjoy their motorized vehicles within the national forest. Please address the access road to and from the OHV Park, called South Main Divide Road. This road is between eight and 10 feet wide in most places with a chip seal surface pot holes and ruts. It is wider and in better condition between Ortega Highway, SR74 and our community, Rancho Capistrano. People accessing the park usually have large trucks, many lifted and are often pulling trailers. There are excited about their upcoming adventure, talking to their friends and drive along the road with this enthusiasm, or very tired from their day of fun and possibly alcohol. The access road goes right through our private community. A community of children, people on bicycles, people walking their dogs, people on horses, people with horses drawn carriages, you get the picture. A fast moving jacked up truck, pulling a trailer loaded with everything except their garages 4 walls, music so loud they can’t hear anything around them, going excessively fast, bouncing down the road, is not a good combination blasting through a quiet pedestrian community. It’s only a matter of time of time before a preventable accident occurs. You put your life in danger crossing South Main Divide Road to go from one side of the community to the other. If we want to stroll or hike on South Main Divide with a friend, walk your dog or ride our horse or bicycle, Yikes! You must consider yourself invisible to the drivers because basically they rarely see you or notice. You have to jump out of the way as they come barreling past you. And hopefully you have the time and the space to do so… Or if you have a horse they haven’t frightened or spooked your horses so you may still keep them under control. On the portion of South Main Divide Road we use to access our community we must contend with these drivers as we drive to and from our community. This portion of the road is thankfully wider. The OHV drivers assume they are the only drivers using the road so they often use up the entire road, driving right down the middle. South Main Divide Road was named that for a reason. It sits at and runs along the very top of the mountain with cliffs and steep drops in most places. If you are run off the road you could get a quick elevator drop in your car 2000-3000 feet to the valley floor below. Luckily some areas are only a few hundred feet… Not my idea of a way to see the Cleveland National Forest in detail. I’m not asking to shut down the OHV Park. It serves a great purpose, reducing the motorcycles, quads, and side-by-side from tearing up the forest and it gives them a structured organized place to do just that. Just please, Please, PLEASE, put measures in place to slow them down on South Main Divide Road, on their way to and from a day of fun in the National Forest. Thank you, Susan Faass - 4/29/2025

I would like to comment on the Cleveland National Forest grant applications on behalf of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. The northern application looks good except for the $60,000 for trail maintenance. (also $65000 last year, in 2022 $65,000, in 2021 $35,000.) That is a lot of money to spend on eight miles of trails. The southern application looks spot on. The application says "San Diego County has the second highest total of registered OHV's in the state (23,654)" I believe the number is closer to 123,000 registered OHVs in the county. We are proud to see our organization listed as a partner organization to the CNF. Gabe and his team do a great job of managing Corral Canyon and we hope this application can be fully funded. We understand that there have been personnel cuts in this office. If that were to require any change in this grant application, I believe this comment would allow the applicants to make changes. We attend two trail maintenance days a year there and they are always well attended and productive. I personally recreate at Corral Canyon and always find the facilities in acceptable condition. Hey Gabe, you know the gate above Buckman Springs Road? Do you think we could get an opening just big enough for motorcycles to fit through, like at the Pine Valley gate? (grant administrators, the gate is there by Homeland Security to keep people from going around a checkpoint on the freeway nearby.) Ed Stovin - 5/1/2025

I’m writing this comment in support of USFS efforts in securing grant funding for maintaining and enhancing the unique and invaluable public resources at the Wildomar OHV area. The outreach opportunities these types of resources provide shine a light not only on the recreational opportunities afforded by our public lands, but also the sensitivity and care required for them. Signage, education, community involvement, trail maintenance, and care for Site facilities are all critical components in safely and respectfully maintaining both public access and the health of our Forest. The work of the USFS in performing these efforts in support of the Wildomar OHV area is thus very much appreciated and has our community’s full support. Thank you. Aaron Sappenfield - 5/2/2025

I would like to comment on the Los Padres National Forest grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. This is an important application and should be funded to maintain all those miles of routes. 386 is a lot of trail miles. How did last year's grant not get funded? Everything looks to be good from my end. Lots of equipment and materials. Hourly rates are not too high. I hope this project can move along smoothly with full funding. Ed Stovin - 5/1/2025

I am a long-time frequent dirt biker on the OHV trails of the Upper Lake and Grindstone districts, I am also an active trail maintenance volunteer in the Upper Lake District holding a current USFS National Sawyer Certification Card to assist District efforts to clear fallen trees from OHV trails. As such I’ve seen firsthand the deleterious effects the wildfires have had and continue to have on these OHV areas as well as the limited resources the Districts have to keep these trails usable. Grants like these are critical in this post-fire recovery period. Without it I’m certain a vital riding area will inevitably be rendered unusable. Accordingly, I full-throatedly support the approval of this grant application. Andrew Muhlbach - 3/26/2025

I would like to submit my comment for the G25 grant for the Mendocino National Forest. I live in Kelseyville and have been going into the National Forest since 1968. I was also lucky enough to be able to go into the Mendocino National Forest as a CHP Officer and enforce the laws to make the National Forest a safer place for the public. I have since retired in 2009 and can spend more time going into the National Forest and volunteer my time on working on the roads and trails. I have one suggestion what I would like to see done with some of the grant money. Out of the Middle Creek Campground and staging area, there are two trails leaving from there and going up to the Lower Deer Valley road giving you access to the National Forest. Both of those trails are for 50" or less vehicles. On one of my volunteer days, I asked the trail dozer operator if it would be hard to widen one of those trails out to a 70" or less trail for the Side by Side (SxS) vehicles. He advised me that it would not be difficult. I use to ride dirt bikes in the National Forest. As I have gotten into my 70s, I've gone to the SxS so its more comfortable for my wife and I to enjoy the National Forest and still Volunteer to work to keep the trail and roads open. I would like to be able to park our motorhome in the Middle Creek campground and ride out of there. We have several friends in our age group that would like to join us there. The only place that we can go to camp and ride our SxS now is at the Deer Valley campground and taking a motorhome, even a small one into that campground with miles of dirt road is pretty rough on a motorhome. Penny Pines campground at the paved Elk Mountain road is also only for 50" or less vehicles. I don't understand why all the good campground, just off the paved roads, are for the 50" or less vehicles. At some point those young motorcycle riders are going to age and want to go to a more comfortable SxS to enjoy the National Forest. Please take into consideration in widening one of the two trails (hopefully trail 04) coming out of the Middle Creek campground staging areas to a 70" or less trail so us senior riders can still enjoy the Mendocino National Forest. I've been asking for this for years. I've sent comments before to the grant recipients, talked to people at the Upper Lake Ranger Station, talked to Rangers out on the trails when we've volunteered and as you can see I also talked to the dozer operator. Sincerely, Craig Van Housen - 4/22/2025

To Whom it May Concern: I am writing to express my concern on trails being developed or maintained through the Grants Program and the G25 Preliminary Application process. These trails should be developed as multi-use trails and should contain signage reminding users of that multi-use. As a hiker and equestrian enthusiast, the lack of signage and the single track nature of these trails create a situation where it is not entirely safe for hiking or equestrian use. I have almost been hit by mountain bikers 3 separate times while riding horses on these multi-use trails. I believe that signage would help bikers (whether mountain bike or motor bike) to remember that other users are on the trails. My belief is that safety signs should be added at any trail merge/road connection onto these trails. For instance, on the Huffle-Berry trail, it should be marked at the entrance to the trail at the end of Road 10M20. It should also be marked when that trail meets the Berry Creek trail. The Berry Creek trail should have signage at the connection with the Berry Creek Connector and at the Berry Creek connection with Quarry Road. The Berry Creek Connector should have signate when it meets up with 10M21B. In addition, the Chandler trail should have signage in similar ways. A sign at the start of the trail off of Mount Hough Road, at the Taylor Creek trail junction, and the areas where the trail crosses the Hough Spur. There are many other trails out there and a safety sign at the starts of the trails as well as any places where people are getting onto the trails from a different direction. When trails are being developed, they should be wide enough to allow multiple users to safely pass each other. For instance, the Huffle-Berry trail immediately connected to 10M20 is too narrow if a bike were to encounter a horse. There is no way for these users to safely get around one another. Ensuring that trails are wide enough to provide for safe passage would make these trails usable by all, not just the biking and motor biking communities. Thank you for your time. Jennifer McQuarrie - 4/14/2025

I would like to comment on the San Bernardino National Forest grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. I was in the forest motorcycling last week at the Pinnacles Staging area. Could the forest please grade the road Willow Creek Jeep Trail from Highway 173 to the Pinnacles staging area? It is in bad shape. Could you also open 2N10 as soon as possible? I would like to ride over from the south, but can't get to town with 2N10 closed. Is there another way to get to town from 1N54 or 2N06?? This grant is so important to maintain a lot of opportunity for many people who visit SBNF in the warmer months. I hope this application can be funded as fully as possible. Ed Stovin - 5/1/2025

Application looks great approve what they are asking. Casey Batchelder - 3/11/2025

What a great project! Glad to see that funds are provided for OHV recreation. It's important to the American people that we have these recreation opportunities. Carinna Robertson - 3/19/2025

I would like to comment on the CNF Patrol application on behalf of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. This is a very modest application that should be funded as completely as possible. There is one minor error. It refers to Corral Canyon "It is also the largest legal riding area in the County". Ocotillo Wells is partly in San Diego County and has about 15,000 acres there, so Corral Canyon is the second largest OHV area in the county. We appreciate that this grant is primarily used to patrol the OHV areas. Ed Stovin - 5/1/2025

Hello, I recreate in the Lassen National Forest year-round. I think the majority of these efforts should be directed towards side-by-side users out of all the OHVs. Time and time again it is the side by side users that are ruining OHV use for all of us. They are riding in an open cockpit with their trash flying out of the vehicle constantly. Beer cans and food wrappers are something I am constantly picking up and watch fly out of their vehicles. Often they are drinking while driving, and not slowing down for others. Side by sides are able to corner very fast and it poses a danger for us who ride motorcycles or atvs because we cannot react fast enough in a corner to avoid them. Many of us in the motorcycle and atv community do not feel safe riding high traffic forest roads because of it. Not to mention the damage done to graded forest roads when they fish tail around the corners. I also read that the scheduling for Forest Protection officers are during week days during daylight? I feel like the use of them would be far better suited for weekends when it is peak side-by-side and snowmobile use. There is very little use during the week days from my experience. Cameron D. - 3/5/2025

Law enforcement needs the money to enforce the rules, they should be awarded and even get enough money for overtime and enforcement. Casey Batchelder - 3/11/2025

This application is similar to those submitted each year. While I can appreciate the need for both gear and personnel hours, Alameda has a small sliver of Carnegie SVRA within its borders. There are no other public OHV opportunities within this large county. Grants are awarded to police illegal OHV riding on private or public property, including on "highways" meaning on streets. I question if the on street riding is a single dirt bike or part of a street side show, including many vehicles that happen to include dirt bikes or ROV's. In the latter case, law enforcement response need not be supported by OHV funds. I would appreciate knowing how many trained personnel are on staff as quoting by hours does not indicate employee numbers. While the equipment requested in this grant would supply 8 LE Office, (prior years have been 6). Is turnover 6 to 8 per year? What is the average amount of time an officer serves in this division as the gear is fitted to the officer and cannot be handed off to another. Is the used gear, given to the officer upon reassignment or are things like boots donated? When riding dual sport, ie on street, not off road, is the same equipment used and needed? While I understand that the county is accustomed to annual awards, grant funds are not as plentiful as they once were. Higher amounts should go to counties that have OHV opportunities. Sadly, one of the areas that is noted in the application where illegal riding is taking place, is on the Alameda Tesla property, which was originally planned to be an addition to adjacent Carnegie SVRA. That property is in State Parks hands today. The use of OHV funds to police it is ironic and in my opinion inappropriate. Thank you. Diana Mead - 4/4/2025

Good evening. I 100% back the Alpine County Sheriff's on the funding for better tools for being on the trails. Slick rock is a trail that I love and volunteer on. The Sheriff's presence would be a welcome site on the trail. Alpine county has some awesome areas, the trails need to be protected, to stay open for the generations. Campers, hunters, fishermen, hikers, all enjoy the county, and all it has to offer. Other counties have Sheriff patrols on trails, Rubicon, Fordyce. It's a very welcome site I'm a resident of Arnold, have grown up on the hwy 4 corridor. Christopher Bruce - 3/13/2025

May 4th, 2025 RE: El Dorado County Grant application for parking lot at Loon Lake Kiosk Rubicon Trail Entrance. Historically the Rubicon trail and its community have been under constant attack and threats of closure for decades. In recent years El Dorado County has come to understand and appreciate the value of this trail, not just from an economic standpoint but also the importance of this area to the global OHV community. Unfortunately, this grant is not a move in the right direction and in fact completely polar opposite. It would appear that the County has not done its homework if in fact the goal is to protect the trail from closure and continue to maintain ALL entrances to this historic trail. It is a documented fact that the Loon Lake intertie entrance to the Rubicon trail does not fall under the protection and same classification as the others i.e., Wentworth entrance (Original Trail). The County Maintains an easement from the USFS for this section. This area falls into a well-known jurisdictional nightmare. With USFS, El Dorado County and not least of all SMUD, all having some interests to this section. El Dorado County has permits through the USFS for facilities in this area suggesting that the USFS has jurisdiction, but the USFS does not claim the area and lets El Dorado County maintain and control it. All the while SMUD has very important infrastructure in the same location i.e., Loon Lake dam and related facilities. One could argue while these types of facilities are primarily overseen by the DSOD (Division of safety of dams), they do collaborate with the Department of homeland security. It is highly unlikely that SMUD would allow such a project to go through as it would clearly and most definitely increase traffic and use in the immediate vicinity. In addition, the user conflict that this project would induce cannot be understated. Currently motorized traffic mostly stops at the end of the paved road and there is a natural separation of user groups, with most two-wheel drive traffic ceasing travel at the gravel above and before the dam. A paved road and parking lot would increase traffic in the area substantially. It has been suggested by some that the area has environmental concerns, the mention of runoff into Gerle creek from erosion to the extent of sending in reports and video to the that affect. The gravel runoff in the area is a result of the dam itself and the spillway that was created for it and has been that way for many decades. The construction of a parking lot and paved road would cause catastrophic and irreparable damage to the immediate area and creek. This holds true with other projects such as this causing petroleum run off into creeks and streams from black top and asphalt, ultimately ending in legal battles and closures. In closing it would appear the County has been ill advised in pursuing this grant and may want to consider reaching out to more than a single source when researching these types of issues. The grant process itself is an expensive pursuit with costs directly related to the taxpayer and it would appear this is a waste of those precious funds. If this project was to move forward it has the potential to open such a jurisdictional can of worms that it could ultimately end in the closure of this valuable entrance to the world-famous Rubicon Trail. El Dorado County has worked diligently for the past two decades protecting the trail and its public access and should continue to do so. This is not a move it that direction. I urge El Dorado County to maintain its course and re consider this grant and its potential for disastrous effects to the Rubicon Trail. We are a worldwide community of users and the County would be well advised to reach out and listen to all not just a select few that reflect agreeable agendas. Thanks for your consideration,Tim Green - 5/4/2025

In 2022 and 2023 Rubicon Trail Foundation (RTF) aka John Arenz sent in letters and/or emails requesting that I be directed to submit a grant application to pave the parking lot at Loon Lake. As I stated then and again today the parking lot is not under the jurisdiction of El Dorado County. The county road ends at the end of pavement at North Shore Campground. The easement for the Intertie starts at the spillway. The parking lot is under the jurisdiction of the Forest Service. RTF knows this as they would obtain permits from the Forest Service for their event Cantina on the Con from them and the county was not involved. This grant would not be in the best interest of the county for many reasons but the main reason it that it is not the historic Rubicon Trail. It is the intertie. The county has made commitments to protect the Rubicon Trail which begins at Wentworth Springs. The county has an easement but could decide at any time to abandon that easement of the intertie and give it back to the Forest Service. This would have no effect on the historic trail. This would be a maintenance nightmare for the county. Why would the county think about a parking lot which will cost a lot to maintain and does not protect or benefit the historic trail? The many other reasons why this project makes no sense is that the dam moves, and pavement would crack and be difficult to maintain. The runoff and testing required would be costly. This is a 4x4 trail entrance so why would you pave it to make it easy for any 2 wheeled vehicles? Users have complained about Gatekeeper and what the Forest Service did years ago and know you want to pave the parking lot so any vehicle can park there. Let alone the user conflict and camping. The campgrounds are usually open on Memorial Day and close Labor Day. So, camping would be at this parking lot continuously. I do not see any documentation that the Eldorado National Forest for SMUD is in support of this. It would be a waste of funds, county resources and another grant that the county could not fulfill. There was no letter from the land manager agreeing to the project which is required at the preliminary grant application. Vickie Sanders - 5/4/2025

I would like to comment on the Imperial County Sheriff's Dept grant applications on behalf of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. I looked at the hours claimed for working with OHV and added all the hours claimed in the application. I counted 16,265 hours the office spends on OHV with 13,062 hours the grant application asks to fund with the grant. This is a huge numbers of hours for this agency. While I cannot tell if this is real, I can calculate that it represents almost eight people working full time for a year only on OHV. I have spent a lot of time in Imperial County and don't remember seeing very many sheriffs in my OHV travels. I see there is a line item for a very expensive off road car. While some might think it to be an abuse to buy this car, it is actually necessary for law enforcement to use to chase bad guys out in the sand dunes. Just the presence of this car will be a deterrent to bad behavior in the dunes. Should you take possession of this car, I hope I can have a ride along in it. There is mention of Educational Outreach in the LE application "Staff-Deputy Overtime (Includes benefits) Notes : Deputies play an active role in OHV education, public presentations, and special event details. Additionally, they patrol assigned areas to ensure OHV safety, enforce regulations, and provide educational outreach to the public." I believe this should be moved to the safety and education applications. In the first education application, I am curious what schools will have the officers come in to do OHV safety presentations. Would it be possible for me to review the materials presented? I am interested in knowing the schedule the sheriff has with the local schools. In the second safety and education application, what is the difference between normal LE patrols and safety patrols? From the second safety application "Two Deputies assigned to the project to conduct safety patrols or monitoring of OHV open areas" and " One Sergeant assigned to the project to conduct safety patrols or monitoring of OHV open areas, and respond to search and rescue operations, during regular work hours" Do you project there to be 900 hours next year doing search and rescue operations? I see there are 200 hours of fixed wing airplane use. The odd thing about this is that it only asks for $28.90 per hour. Just the plane should cost between $100 and $225 per hour plus the pilot's and a possible copilot's pay. I feel like this item should be much more money. This agency is not know for being hard on citizens and for that I am thankful. Ed Stovin - 4/23/2025

We support the Sheriff's grant application, as includes communicating with OHV users and an education component. We request help with monitoring the Palmdale Hills Trail, which has been inundated on weekends and holidays by side by sides and other unauthorized vehicles. The Palmdale Hills multiuse (equestrian, hiking and mountain biking) Trail has been in the area since the late 1950's and the 1.4-mile trail is located east (top of El Camino Drive) and west of the 14 freeway up to the aqueduct vehicle crossing near East Barrel Springs Road. The trail is being widened without permission with unauthorized vehicles utilizing trail causing erosion issues, with trail kiosk and trail markers being covered with graffiti, etc. Please include this trail as one of your patrol areas to educate unauthorized users to nearby OHV recreation authorized areas. You can find more information regarding this trail at trails.lacounty.gov and insert "Palmdale Hills Trail" to find map of the trail and other pertinent information. Feel free to contact me and I can join you on onsite to show you the area. Robert Ettleman - 3/11/2025

We support this grant request. Robert Ettleman - 3/11/2025

We support this grant request. Robert Ettleman - 3/11/2025

I am writing in support of the grant through the California State Parks and Recreation Division that will fund the Palmdale Station Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Team which serves the Acton and surrounding rural areas. This Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Team is vital to ensure the safety, conservation and overall tranquility of our rural neighborhoods. A great deal of land in the Acton wash (Soledad/Crown Valley) is owned and managed by LA County and is designated as a Wildlife Sanctuary. In addition, approximately 80 acres of adjoining wash area is owned by the Mountains, Recreation and Conservation (MRCA) and is also designated as a Wildlife Sanctuary. Unfortunately, on almost a daily basis it is frequented with dirt bikes, Razors, trucks and other OHV. This is NOT a OHV designated area. MRCA is spread thin on their resources to patrol this area and we rely on Palmdale Sheriif Station to manage complaints for this area. MRCA has agreed to install signage indicating the land uses and I am hoping that LA County will also install signs on their Acton wash land. In addition, other areas that need patrol include the Pacific Crest Trail in Mint Canyon in Agua Dulce which is also frequented by OHV. This is in violation of the trails designation and is very dangerous to hikers/equestrians. In summary, please continue to fund the grant through the California State Parks and Recreation Division that will fund the Palmdale Station Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Team which serves the Acton and surrounding rural areas. Thank you. Terri Smith - 3/18/2025

I would like to comment on the LA County Sheriff's Dept grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off-Road Coalition. LA County Sheriff's Dept, has some worthy applications to go after illegal OHV use. There is, however, an hourly rate of over $211 per hour. This is the highest rate I have ever seen in an application! Are you sure about that? Lancaster is not a high cost of living area. Other than the high hourly rates, these applications are worthwhile. Ed Stovin - 4/29/2025

I am grateful that NCSD is submitting another grant for patrolling and law enforcement in the Knoxville RA. The presence if the NCSD team in this area has resulted in a distinct decrease in reckless and illegal activity since they started patrolling, I have no doubt that crime and accidents would increase. I whole heartedly support their grant application, both as a private citizen living directly adjacent to the KRA, as well as a professional operating a University of California research station surrounded by the KRA. Thank you for funding their request!!! If you any question, please email me. I'm happy to discuss. Cheers, Cathy Koehler - 3/19/2025

As a resident of Butte county, the Plumas National Forest trail system has been a key contributor to my continued appreciation for the north state. It has been maintained as a labor of love by non-profit organizations over the years. The trail stewardship efforts of SBTS has been a life-blood for this region and needs our continued investment and support, ESPECIALLY as we witness the reduction in workforce for many Federal agencies that would typically partner with organizations like SBTS. Please continue to entrust land stewardship to this wonderful organization for the benefit of the wildlife, the fire hardening efforts, and the community they have taken as core to their beliefs. Thank you. William Martin - 3/5/2025

I think it's very important as a County, and for the community's lying there in to keep our natural resources open for all to enjoy. This will take different shapes at different times but the key element is to being open for all Forever. Hugh Brown - 3/6/2025

I urge you to fund the PNF Ground Operations grant for Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. Maintaining these trails is critical to the success of the local economy and the well being of local residents. The Mt. Hough trail system and surrounding areas are very popular among recreators, whose dollars flow into the local economy. It's also important for local residents to have safe access to these trails for health and well-being. Maintaining the trails properly will lead to long term sustainability of the trail system. Also, on the heels of the Dixie fire, it is presumed that the trail system requires more maintenance than ever before, meaning that funding this grant is more important than ever before. Please support the Quincy area, Mt. Hough, and Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship in this vitally important effort. Kyle Stone - 3/7/2025

Great Job, Important work. Please fund. Mary Gross - 3/8/2025

Economical stimulation, ecological protection, public quality of life in enhancement. These are all proven results of the continued existence of the trail network. The importance of this grant can not be overstated. The city, and county depend on this grant. How much money has been invested into this trail network? Makes sense to protect this investment and continue to attract the public to this land as the use of this motorized trail network stimulated the local economy. Public opinion is clear: keep these trails open. Christopher J Atkinson - 3/8/2025

The Quincy trails are more than paths through nature-they're a vital part of my life. they provide a space for me to connect with the outdoors, stay active and find peace. Whether I'm hiking, biking or just taking a hike, these trails offer a sense of community and deep appreciation for the environment. Protecting and maintaining them is incredibly important to me and the local economy, because they enhance the quality life and the natural beauty of the area. Bob Russell - 3/10/2025

To whom it may concern, The Plumas County trail system is extremely important to me and my family. It is imperative to keep these trails open for the public to use. Not only do the trails provide excellent access to our public lands, they also provide a critically positive economic impact to Plumas County and it's communities. Here are some reasons for my and my family's support: Recreation opportunities for visitors and locals Creates local employment Creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance Keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed I fully support this grant opportunity being approved. Martin Scheel - 3/10/2025

We run the Lake Davis Resort. There would be much more opportunity for our guests to enjoy the area on their OHV with improvement to the trails. We personally have had to turn around several times in our excursions on the trails in Plumas county. Many residents of Plumas county do not realize how important a trail system is in bringing in tourist dollars to the county. We support the efforts of our county to get grant funding for this project. Susan - 3/12/2025

I support this grant to maintain motorized trails on the Plumas National Forest. Thank you,Nick Collin - 3/13/2025

Please fund this!!! Zachary Cogle - 3/25/2025

1) The proposed maintenance on Mt. Hough is in the Dixie Fire burn scar. This area and other burns scars need to be managed for the health of the forest environment, flora and fauna, riparian areas,etc as a priority to recreation activities. The area needs to be restored, not logged out so that motorized trails can be re-opened. 2) Areas like this are a potential hazard to the public given the falling trees. This should be taken into consideration given the amount of recreation occurring in the area 3) There is no budgeting for safety signage for trail users. This is a requirement of Plumas Plumas County General Plan 4) Provisions in the Plumas County General Plan regarding conservation and open space considerations have not been addressed in the budget proposal 5) Cleaning of OHV parking and campground areas in all ranger districts, including downed tree and debris removal is encouraged. Lane Labbe' and Lisa Labbe' - 3/26/2025

1) The Mt. Hough Trail area to be logged is in the Dixie Fire burn scar area. The area should be restored. Disturbances should be minimized so the area can recover. Given the significant amount of fire ravaged forests on the PNF it is suggested a forest wide restoration plan should be developed and implemented. 2) Areas like this are a potential hazard to the public given the falling trees. This should be taken into consideration given the amount of recreation occurring in the area 3) There is no budgeting for safety signage for trail users. This is a requirement of Plumas Plumas County General Plan 4) Provisions in the Plumas County General Plan regarding conservation and open space considerations have not been addressed in the budget proposal 5) Cleaning of OHV parking and campground areas in all ranger districts, including downed tree and debris removal is encouraged. Lane Labbe' - 3/26/20125

I attended the public meeting for this grant proposal. Sierra Buttes Trail(SBTS) folks were there saying they needed to be able to clear trees that had fallen on their mountain biking trail so it could be used by their clients who have access to a private shuttle service that other users are not privy to. Until these trails developed by SBTS on Mt. Hough are available to all of the public I find it very difficult to support anything but the re-design of these radically designed "downhill only" single track trails. Other Concerns 1) The Mt. Hough Trail area to be logged is in the Dixie Fire burn scar area. The area should be restored. Disturbances should be minimized so the area can recover. Given the significant amount of fire ravaged forests on the PNF it is suggested a forest wide restoration plan should be developed and implemented. 2) Areas like this are a potential hazard to the public given the falling trees. This should be taken into consideration given the amount of recreation occurring in the area 3) There is no budgeting for safety signage for trail users. This is a requirement of Plumas Plumas County General Plan 4) Provisions in the Plumas County General Plan regarding conservation and open space considerations have not been addressed in the budget proposal 5) Cleaning of OHV parking and campground areas in all ranger districts, including downed tree and debris removal is encouraged. Lane Labbe' II - 3/26/2025

Hello, I'm an avid offroad dirtbike trail rider and wanted to voice my support for the work these guys are doing in the Lost Sierra. With the fire that went through there a few years back there is lots of deadfall and definitely a need for some trail maintenance. I hope the grant is awarded to them. Thank you, Justin Gastrich - 3/28/2025

As a resident of Quincy, I fully support the ongoing projects on the Plumas. SBTS continues to do impactful work in partnership with Federal, State, and Local authorities. Daniel Pargee - 4/1/2025

I am writing in support of the Plumas County’s Ground Operations grant through the OHMVR Grants Program for trail maintenance on 100 miles of motorized trails in the Plumas National Forest in partnership with the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. The work done in partnership with SBTS to maintain multi-use trails in Plumas County has made it one of my family's favorite mountain biking destinations in the summer. SBTS has done incredible work to help the area recover from the Dixie Fire. We were very impressed when we rode in the area last summer. Please continue to fund this important ongoing work so that the trails can recover along with the forest and local communities! Heather Day - 4/5/2025

I live over in Lassen County and I visit Plumas as often as I can to enjoy the trails that the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship builds and maintains. The Beckwourth Peak trail has become a favorite of mine, and at least 5-6 times a year I make the trip to Quincy to enjoy the growing network of trails on Mt. Hough. I'm also very impressed with the fire resilience efforts they've incorporated into their trail planning, and having nearly lost my home and business to a wildfire, that effort means a lot to me. I am writing to voice my support for the SBTS organization and hope that they will continue to receive the funding and support that they need to continue their mission. Casey Clark - 5/5/2025

Looking at the Lake Elsinore, you mention that the Lake Elsinore Motocross Park is an opportunity in the area. You might want to know that the track has closed. The Thermal station application says "As with most of California, the desert region continues to battle severe flooding and damages to roadways and critical infrastructure due to evolving weather conditions and other severe storms throughout the year. OHVs enable a swift response to a variety of rescue scenarios. Considering the increasing frequency of natural disasters in Southern California, OHVs can serve as crucial response tools during periods of inclement weather when conventional emergency vehicles face limitations. With the aid of this grant funding, OHVs can be deployed to install warning signs and road barriers, effectively alerting and diverting motorists away from potential flood disaster areas, thereby potentially saving lives and property. " We don't think OHV grant money should be used in these non OHV ways. Both Lake Elsinore and Lake Mathew stations claim to cover Temescal Valley. Is that right? It looks like Perris is where all the excitement is! I recall an OHV grant was used to fund the search for a new OHV park, I have not heard anything about that is a while, how is that going? Ed Stovin - 4/30/2025

I strongly support the requested grant application for off-road vehicle enforcement. The County of San Bernardino has very large areas which are frequently used illegally by off-road vehicles. In some cases, these are people looking for off-road entertainment, but in many other cases, the off-road areas are used by criminal elements seeking clandestine routes. There is also a significant number of motorcycles that use off-road areas to evade police. For a number of economic and cultural reasons, crime has risen dramatically in San Bernardino County. Unless the Sheriff is provided with the needed resources, we will continue to see a decline in civility and the rule of law. Please approved the requested grant to help maintain and restore order in our County. Regards, Joel Rothschild - 4/3/2025.

I would like to comment on the SDC Sheriff's grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off-Road Coalition. Some of the hourly rates are pretty high and there is a little blur between law enforcement and safety and education. I think you should spend more than $100 for each helmet. Helmets that cheap are not good enough for you. If you have 50 new people assigned to ORET, why are you only asking for 10 helmets? From the application, "ORET typically has 50 new deputies/reserves/instructors assigned during a fiscal year" I really like all the training your people will get. Can I ask, what happened to the motorcycles? I see you are planning training for ATV, UTV and 4X4. I am familiar with RHOVA UTV training. Who will you get ATV and 4X4 training from? Talking about training, I understand State Parks OHMVR has specific OHV LE training. Have you ever taken that? Why is the scoring information not below this application? I am with the San Diego Off Road Coalition and we should discuss forming a partnership. That will add a point to your application and we would like to hear about your activities. We have had ORET members come to our monthly meetings in the past and you are welcome to join us on the first Tuesday of the month in Lakeside. Will you be in the Lakeside Western Days Parade this Saturday? You are welcome to join the SDORC float where we drive/ride OHVs in the parade. This is a worthy grant application and I hope it can be fully funded. Ed Stovin - 4/24/2025

We would like to comment on the San Diego Sheriff's Dept grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. We see in the application it says "Some reserve deputies are certified EMTs, paramedics, nurses, and doctors." You really have deputies who are also doctors? The application states "The ORET provides education to the public by visiting schools, military bases, attending parades and other public events, and promoting legal and safe off-road riding information. " We were just in the Lakeside Western Days Parade. Were you there? What schools, bases and other public events do you provide education to? We would seriously like to know. We think you should plan to spend more than $100 per helmet for your people. You should push that up to at least $300. Your people are worth it. Our group meets on the first Tuesday of each month at Ranch House Restaurant at 6:30pm. We would love to have you come out and tell us about your activities in more detail. Seriously, please contact me. Ed Stovin - 4/30/2025

I would like to comment on the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Dept grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. This is a very reasonable application to cover the large amount of open space in the district. I hope this application can be funded a fully as possible. Ed Stovin - 4/30/2025

I would like to comment of the Ventura County Sheriff's Department grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off Road Coalition. This is a reasonable grant application to cover a lot of legal OHV opportunity. I like the idea of using Starlink for your remote patrols. This is the first application I have seen requesting this. Good luck with your work and we hope you get the funding needed to do your job. Ed Stovin - 5/1/2025

This agency has been deemed ineligible for the 2025 (G25) Grants and Cooperative Agreement Program.

I would like to comment on CCTRA grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off-Road Coalition. First, I'm very impressed that CCTRA is making their own Habitat Management Plan and Soil Conservation Plan for ground operations projects. It is really amazing that this small club does this. I see you hire biologists for the HMP. Do club members make the soil plan themselves? I know that applicants can use their own vehicles to make match. Would it be possible for CCTRA to rent their motorcycles to the state when inspecting routes? This application is an example of doing a lot of work to support OHV for relatively little money. I hope I can tour some of these routes in person someday and I hope this application can be fully funded. Ed Stovin - 4/23/2025

Dear Grants Manager and Desert Tortoise Preserve Committee: Defenders of Wildlife (Defenders) has reviewed the Desert Tortoise Preserve Committee’s(DTPC) G25 Ground Operations Grant Application and recommends that the Off-highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division award the grant in the amount of $486,613. If approved, the DTPC’s G25 Grant Application will significantly reduce impact to the Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area (DTRNA) caused by off-highway vehicle (OHV) use both within and adjacent to the DTRNA. This will be achieved by: 1. Installing desert tortoise exclusion fencing along 13.12 miles of existing perimeter fence at the DTRNA boundary and adjacent DTRNA Expansion Lands acquired by the DTPC and California Department of Fish and Wildlife to protect the desert tortoise and its habitat; 2. Monitoring and removing invasive plant species that proliferate along OHV routes and trails adjacent to the DTRNA and Expansion Area perimeter fences; 3. Restoring soil impacts and surface degradation related to the fence installation; 4. Installing new and recycled signs along perimeter fences that notify the public about the desert tortoise and its protected status; and 5. Restoring soil erosion and surface degradation along perimeter fences, streambeds and wash areas along the fenced perimeter of the DTRNA and Expansion Lands. DTRNA Background The DTRNA was designated by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in 1976 as a fully protected Research Natural Area and as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern in 1980. It is the only desert tortoise conservation area managed by BLM that is fully fenced to exclude livestock and motorized vehicles. Monitoring by the U.S. Geological Survey has documented that the DTRNA is the only known area where the desert tortoise population is increasing compared to adjacent unfenced Critical Habitat where populations are in steep decline and below minimum viable density. Importance of the DTPC’s Grant Application for the Desert Tortoise The full potential of the DTRNA and adjacent Expansion Lands in recovering the threatened desert tortoise is compromised due to motorized vehicle use along the perimeter fences which has resulted in mortality and injury to desert tortoises that move from the DTRNA to adjacent habitat outside the fence. The DTPC’s Grant Application to fund installation of desert tortoise exclusion fences, install signs, remove trash and exotic plants, and restore soils and habitat within and along the fences will contribute to recovery of the desert tortoise. Conclusion For the reasons stated above, Defenders recommends that the OHMVR Division approve the DTPC’s G25 Grant Application. Please contact me at my email address if you have questions about our letter of support or need additional supporting documentation. Respectfully submitted, Jeff Aardahl – 3/11/2025

We support this funding request for: -OHV Visitor Education Representative on weekends and holidays as area has become quite popular increasing use tremendously! -Production and dispersal of bilingual safety brochures and digital messaging -Positive interactions with OHV users providing safety-oriented information and education on lakebed closures to protect the lakebed for public use. Robert Ettleman - 3/11/2025

We support this grant request, as the BLM is short of staff, underfunded, and relies on nonprofits such as this group to provide regular timely high-quality maintenance. The maintenance work with signage and fencing improvements is making a positive impact with the various user groups who frequent this unique area. Please keep up the good work being accomplished within the confines of this unique OHV area! Robert Ettleman - 3/11/2025

After reviewing the grant information, I respectfully submit the following comments and corrections for consideration: Project Area Addition and Grading Priority On Page 7 of 31, Please add Lake Road (approximately 6 miles in length) to PROJECT AREA 1, it was mentioned in the summary but appears to have inadvertently been excluded from the details. This also will require the estimated milage to be adjusted from ~31 to ~37 both in the summary and the details. Additionally, I recommend that the Training Course be included in the grading list, as it requires at least annual grading to maintain functionality and safety. Correction to Stakeholder Meeting Date The stakeholder meeting date was incorrectly listed as December. The correct meeting date was February 2025. Please refer to Page 28, Question 4 at the bottom, and Page 29, where in the second box of our notes, the date should be revised from December to February. Thank you for the opportunity to provide these clarifications and suggestions. Nathan Asdourian - 4/11/2025

I meet monthly with the Friends of El Mirage, various BLM representatives, and member of the Lakebed Safety Committee, as a representative of the County of Los Angeles, Department of Parks and Recreation as their designated OHV Recreational Planner. While reviewing this grant application I noticed some items that I believe ought to be modified: Page 7 of 31: -Please add Lake Road @ 6 miles long to Project Area 1 -Please ad Training Course to grading list, as this needs at minimum annual grading, though suggest grading twice due to recreational use and weather conditions in this area. -Page 28 Question 4 at bottom, then on Page 29 in the second box in their notes they accidentally inserted December, though should be February, as I attended this meeting. Thank you! Robert Ettleman - 4/10/2025

As a frequent user of the El Mirage OHV facility I would like to see some major components of the park facility included in the Ground Operation and maintenance plans. Both the MNaajor lakebed access road "LAKE ROAD" and the select finger roads going on to the lakebed require more frequent attention and should be added to the grading plan. In addition, the area surrounding the training area which suffers from both wind and usage erosion requires grading attention. So, on Page 7 of 31, I would like to: Add Lake Road ~6 miles long, to the PROJECT AREA 1 Add Lake Road - multiple finger access routes, est 3.6 miles, to the PROJECT AREA 1 Add Training Course to grading list- this needs at LEAST a good grading annually. Russ Eyres - 4/13/2025

I attended the "stakeholders meeting" referenced in paragraph 2 top of page 29 as both an SCTA representative and a member of the ETA Specialties group interested in both the hydrology or the El Mirage Lakebed area and the resolution of the "windsock restoration" project. I believe that meeting was in February of 2025 vice December of 2024 as noted. If this is a matter of merit could that date,please be updated / corrected? Russ Eyres - 4/13/2025

I would like to comment on the Friends of El Mirage grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off-Road Coalition. Dispite this being one of the most expensive applications, I can't find anything that looks unusual. FoEM manages this location for a fraction of what it would cost the BLM and it is managed every bit as well. The partnerships are legitimate and all the matching looks good. I feel for FoEM in dealing with the takeovers. That is a difficult situation. Good luck out there and hope to visit again soon. Ed Stovin - 4/23/2025

We support the continued use of grant funding to regularly maintain this expansive recreation area. Robert Ettleman - 3/11/2025

I would like to comment on the Friends of Jawbone grant application on behalf of the San Diego Off-Road Coalition. All three of these applications are very worthwhile to promote OHV in this region. I personally use the Owlshead app for navigation. Could you look into having the app zoom in closer when first opened? Now it is at the perspective from orbit. Also, could you make it be able to zoom in closer to the routes? Otherwise, the applications are important and need to be funded to help manage OHV in the beloved areas. Ed Stovin - 4/23/2025

I strongly encourage markedly increased funding through the Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program - 2025 for the FRIENDS OF THE BRIDGEPORT AVALANCHE CENTER. As downhill ski areas become more and more crowded, especially on weekends, more and more people are turning to backcountry sports (e.g., skiing, snowmobiling, touring). The Bridgeport Avalanche Center requires sufficient funding to produce a daily avalanche forcast, state of the snowpack reports, observations, education (e.g., Avalanche Courses, Avalanche Rescue Courses) and daily backcountry avalanche-specific weather forecasts. David Volkmann - 3/16/2025

I strongly encourage markedly increased funding through the Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program - 2025 for the FRIENDS OF THE BRIDGEPORT AVALANCHE CENTER. Downhill ski areas have become overcrowded, especially on weekends, so more and more people are turning to backcountry sports (e.g., skiing, snowmobiling, touring). The Bridgeport Avalanche Center requires sufficient funding to produce a daily avalanche forcast, state of the snowpack reports, observations, education (e.g., Avalanche Courses, Avalanche Rescue Courses) and daily backcountry avalanche-specific weather forecasts. Sincerely, Theresa Robb - 3/16/2025

I strongly encourage markedly increased funding through the Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program - 2025 for the FRIENDS OF THE BRIDGEPORT AVALANCHE CENTER. As downhill ski areas become more and more crowded, especially on weekends, more and more people are turning to backcountry sports (e.g., skiing, snowmobiling, touring). The Bridgeport Avalanche Center requires sufficient funding to produce a daily avalanche forcast, state of the snowpack reports, observations, EDUCATION (e.g., AVALANCHE COURSES, AVALANCHE RESCUE COURSES) and daily backcountry avalanche-specific weather forecasts. Please fund FRIENDS OF THE BRIDGEPORT AVALANCHE CENTER generously! David Volkmann - 3/16/2025

I strongly encourage markedly increased funding through the Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program - 2025 for the FRIENDS OF THE BRIDGEPORT AVALANCHE CENTER for educational & safety programs. As downhill ski areas become more and more crowded, especially on weekends, more and more people are turning to backcountry sports (e.g., skiing, snowmobiling, touring). The FRIENDS OF THE BRIDGEPORT AVALANCHE CENTER requires sufficient funding for EDUCATION (e.g., AVALANCHE COURSES, AVALANCHE RESCUE COURSES). Please fund FRIENDS OF THE BRIDGEPORT AVALANCHE CENTER generously! David Volkmann - 3/16/2025

Very much appreciated the beta on the road conditions and the avy forecast. Info was spot on and help my buddies and me have a successful and safe trip. Kara Davis - 3/24/2025

Please support grant funds for FOBAC! The Bridgeport Avalanche Center provides information and education for winter OHV users in the Bridgeport Winter Recreation Area (BWRA), a congressionally designated winter motorized sports area. The BWRA and Bridgeport Avalanche Center (BAC) is largely funded by the California State Parks OHV grant. Friends of The Bridgeport Avalanche Center, FOBAC, and the BAC are collaborative. FOBAC assists with the cost of running the avalanche center as the BAC does not have enough funds allocated from the government to fully sustain and operate the avalanche center. It is through FOBAC that the center maintains operations. Additionally, FOBAC provides free avalanche education. This consists of educating the public on how to interpret the advisory and in the field avalanche awareness courses. FOBAC also manages the website, assists with public outreach by educating the OSV users on wilderness boundaries, private property boundaries, and promotes safety in the riding areas. FOBAC also maintains signs and distributes education materials to the public. The grant funds will support avalanche education and safety to the public. The BAC currently provides the only avalanche forecasts for the near Sonora Pass area and provides free avalanche education services to users. The US Forest Service Staff of the BAC has identified an increase in users during the 2024 season and believes this warrants an expansion of our forecasting and education efforts. Rob - 3/25/2025

As a backcountry user (both OHV and human powered), the work that ESAC does is invaluable to safe travel. They provide essential education and forecasting services to all users enjoying our natural resources.Matthew Smith - 4/8/2025

As a backcountry user (both OHV and human powered), the work that ESAC does is invaluable to safe travel. They provide essential education and forecasting services to all users enjoying our natural resources. Matthew Smith - 4/8/2025

Hello - I am a California resident living in Mammoth Lakes. Every day in the winter, I benefit from the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center. I recreate in the backcountry on skis at least 50 days a winter, and I use the avalanche forecast provided by ESAC to make decisions about when and where it is safe to ski. In addition to many locals, I also have many friends who visit from out of town to come ski as well, who all read the forecast and highly benefit from it. Without it, there undoubtedly would be more deaths each year. It would also make visiting the eastern sierra communities to ski a lot less appealing. Please continue to support ESAC. They provide an invaluable service to many thousands of people. Ayelet Bitton - 4/9/2025

My name is Ben Denard and I am a resident of Mammoth Lakes CA. I am an avid snowmobiler and back country rider. I own multiple snowmobiles and use them on a weekly basis in the mammoth lakes region. Everyday that I ride. As well as days I don’t ride, I look at the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center forecast. It is a priceless tool for snowmobilers and skiers alike. The use of the forecast, as well as observations from the public allows for informed decision making. The easy access to to that information is very important for the safety of all back country users, including snowmobilers. In the last few years I have seen more and more snowmobilers at trail heads in town. I believe that they are an important group of users, and that the money from their OHV fees should absolutely be used in the name of their safety, by granting ESAC funds. ESAC has also made a push to include motorized users in its materials, because they understand that OSV users are welcomed and important to include. For those reason I hope to see that they get the continued support of California OHV funds. Thank you. Ben Denard - 4/10/2025

I use the forecast services for back country skiing. Weather changes quickly, and frequent updates (daily) help me stay safe off outdoor areas, especially with avalanche risk. I go bc skiing twice month in general. Jane Sun - 4/19/2025

As an Eastern Sierra resident and frequent backcountry user - I wholeheartedly support the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center's (ESAC) application for funding from the CA OHV grant program. ESAC provides an essential seasonal safety service to motorized and non-motorized winter backcountry users. Without their daily forecasts, recreating near avalanche terrain would be far more treacherous. Please award this critical funding per ESAC's request. Thank you! Jorel C Allegro - 4/23/2025

As an Eastern Sierra resident and frequent backcountry user - I wholeheartedly support the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center's (ESAC) application for funding from the CA OHV grant program. ESAC provides an essential seasonal safety service to motorized and non-motorized winter backcountry users. Without their daily forecasts, recreating near avalanche terrain would be far more treacherous. Please award this critical funding per ESAC's request. Thank you! Jorel C Allegro - 4/23/2025

The ESAC application for grant funding presents an opportunity for an extremely worthwhile cause to be supported through OHV - ESAC helps the offroad community and backcountry travelers stay safe through regular, accurate and meaningful avalanche forecasting and educational events. As a member of this community, I am beyond grateful for the tools and resources that ESAC provides and would not feel comfortable recreating in these spaces if not for their diligent efforts. The funding provided from OHV is critical to the success of ESAC and their ability to serve a large community of OHV and backcountry users. Thank you for your consideration of this application - your financial support is critical! Jess Blackwell - 4/29/2025

ESAC has kept me safe in the backcountry many times this winter season. They are a great use of grant funds! Robert Child - 4/30/2025

I am a resident of Mammoth Lakes CA , and each winter I use the information and resources provided by Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center. Funding that helps ESAC provide information and education to people like me is funding that helps keep me alive in the backcountry. Alexander Jose - 4/30/2025

I am a resident of Mammoth Lakes CA , and each winter I use the information and resources provided by Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center. Funding that helps ESAC provide information and education to people like me is funding that helps keep me alive in the backcountry. Alexander Jose - 4/30/2025

Safety in avalanche country starts with education. I attended some of the ESA programs and they seem to put a lot of research into knowing the conditions and telling the public about it and I want this organisation to keep up their good work. Veronika Karshina - 4/30/2025

This agency has been deemed ineligible for the 2025 (G25) Grants and Cooperative Agreement Program.

This agency has been deemed ineligible for the 2025 (G25) Grants and Cooperative Agreement Program.

Without a doubt one of the most important classes I have taken. Training on how to save lives is one of the most important things we can offer as humans. Excellent staff who are very knowledgeable in the subject matter, excellent curriculum schedule that was easy to follow and enjoyable to learn! Thank you Sierra Avalanche Center for all you do to make it safer for us in the backcountry. Jeb Durgin - 4/8/2025

This is a hugely important safety program for recreational winter sports in the Sierras. The forecasting, the classes, and the overall education efforts by SAC have gone a long way toward reducing incidents and saving lives. Kon Bokarius - 4/8/2025

The Sierra Avalanche Center provides me life-saving education and avalanche forecasting services. I read their avalanche advisory every morning with my coffee to inform my decision making about recreating in the winter backcountry. The observations and forecasting SAC provides helps me return to my wife each day. And helps my partners be able to have similar expectations for successfully navigating avalanche dangers. I have lived in a number of mountains towns over the years, utilizing information from a number of different avalanche centers. After moving to the Tahoe region this past year, I was amazed at how well SAC is organized and ran. The timeliness and reliability of a daily forecast provided a higher level of access to information that I've never had before. I really applaud their efforts to communicate observations to the public in useable ways. Producing video summaries, commentaries, and observations are all things I rely on them for. Their consistency is the only way a recreationalist can feel good that we are accurately monitoring trends and dangers in the backcountry. I took one of SAC's motorized avalanche courses this past season (24/25) - which I surely would not have been able to afford on my own. Each of the past ten seasons I have foregone any further formal avalanche training due to the cost of similar/like programs. Fortunately I found the SAC motorized course this season. The information from SAC was invaluable to my learning. The training provided some of the most applicable and practical information for my time in the mountains. The applicability to motorized recreating was particularly beneficial for me. Taking the training with partners I recreate with made all of our riding in the backcountry dramatically safer too. We lean into the learnings from the course every day we ski and snowmobile together. It is important to note that the increase in winter backcountry usage has invited many un-trained and un-qualified individuals to take on the risks of the backcountry. Their ignorance to the dangers and enthusiasm for the backcountry is a scary combination. A trend that concerns me greatly. The availability of SAC's forecasting and education is these people's only chance at getting knowledgeable enough to pursue their ambitions for years to come. Stephen Hoy - 4/9/2025

As a resident of Butte county, the Downieville trail system, has been a key contributor to my continued appreciation for the north state. Not only is it a world-renown trail network, it has been maintained as a labor of love by non-profit organizations over the years. The trail stewardship efforts of SBTS has been a life-blood for that network and needs our continued investment and support, ESPECIALLY as we witness the reduction in workforce for many Federal agencies that would typically partner with organizations like SBTS. Please continue to entrust land stewardship to this wonderful organization for the benefit of the wildlife, the fire hardening efforts, and the community they have taken as core to their beliefs. Thank you. William Martin - 3/5/2025

The funds will help: -create recreation opportunities for visitors and locals - build local employment - create sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance - keep trails open and safe while protecting watershed. Rachel Dobornyi - 3/5/2025

The Downieville trail system is a world class system for biking and draws people from hundreds of miles to enjoy the trails and compete in the Downieville Classic. These recreation opportunities are sacred to visitors and locals alike. I love to visit and stay after a ride to enjoy food and visit local shops. There is no question that these trails create lots of local employment opportunities. I also like riding there knowing that I’m supporting sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance. I’m so grateful for Sierra Butes Trail Stewardship for keeping these incredible trails open and safe while protecting the watershed. Andrew Little - 3/6/2025

Please continue to fund the maintenance of the Downieville trail system. This world renowned trail system is so important to locals and visitors alike, providing recreation opportunities for thousands and thousands of people each year. Maintaining the system creates local jobs while also sustaining the region economically. Many of the local towns and businesses absolutely depend on this trail system being open for their businesses to remain open. It's vital that the trails be maintained to spec and remain safe for the thousands of folks that enjoy them. Kyle Stone - 3/7/2025

Economical stimulation, ecological protection, public quality of life in enhancement. These are all proven results of the continued existence of the Downieville trail network. The importance of this grant can not be overstated. The city, and county depend on this grant. Christopher J Atkinson - 3/8/2025

Please provide funding for this incredible work these people are doing to provide recreation and further economic boost to the area by the visitors attracted by these trails. Paul Fitzgerald - 3/12/2025

I strongly support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship’s (SBTS) application for funding through the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Grant program. Their work in Downieville and the surrounding Sierra region has been instrumental in maintaining and improving trails that benefit a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, including mountain bikers, hikers, and off-road users. SBTS’s efforts have transformed the area into a premier destination for moto and mountain biking, drawing visitors from across the country and significantly boosting the local economy. Their commitment to sustainable trail management ensures that these trails remain safe, accessible, and environmentally responsible. By investing in SBTS’s work, the state is not only preserving an important recreational resource but also supporting jobs and small businesses in Downieville and the greater Sierra region. Please approve this funding to continue the stewardship of these incredible trails and the vibrant community they support. Daniel Thompson - 3/25/2025

I'm writing in support of funding these projects. I live In Reno and frequent these areas solely because of the work theSBTS does. This work is important because it: Provides recreation opportunities for visitors and locals Creates local employment Creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance Keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed. Timothy Eddy - 3/25/2025

I'm writing in support of funding these projects. I live In Reno and frequent these areas solely because of the work theSBTS does. This work is important because it: Provides recreation opportunities for visitors and locals Creates local employment Creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance Keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed. Timothy Eddy - 3/25/2025

I'm writing in support of funding these projects. I live In Reno and frequent these areas solely because of the work theSBTS does. This work is important because it: Provides recreation opportunities for visitors and locals Creates local employment Creates sustainable trail systems that require less maintenance Keeps trails open and safe while protecting watershed. Timothy Eddy - 3/25/2025

The SBTS has done amazing things for our community. please give them all the money they ask for or more even. Ya please give them more than they ask for. Zachary Cogle - 3/25/2025

To Whom It May Concern: As a life long Northern Californian and mountain biker I would like to whole heartedly support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship organizations application for grant money to help with building and maintaining trails in the long ignored Lost Sierra region. These trails bring in recreationalists to rural communities where they spend money and help to create jobs. Additionally, the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has a multi-decade track record of putting grant money to good use and leveraging volunteers to make the money go even further. Please support thier application for this grant. Thank you. Steve Stewart - 3/25/2025

To Whom It May Concern: As a life long Northern Californian and mountain biker I would like to whole heartedly support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship organizations application for grant money to help with building and maintaining trails in the long ignored Lost Sierra region. These trails bring in recreationalists to rural communities where they spend money and help to create jobs. Additionally, the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has a multi-decade track record of putting grant money to good use and leveraging volunteers to make the money go even further. Please support thier application for this grant. Thank you. Steve Stewart - 3/25/2025

To Whom It May Concern: As a life long Northern Californian and mountain biker I would like to whole heartedly support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship organizations application for grant money to help with building and maintaining trails in the long ignored Lost Sierra region. These trails bring in recreationalists to rural communities where they spend money and help to create jobs. Additionally, the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has a multi-decade track record of putting grant money to good use and leveraging volunteers to make the money go even further. Please support thier application for this grant. Thank you. Steve Stewart - 3/25/2025

To Whom It May Concern: As a life long Northern Californian and mountain biker I would like to whole heartedly support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship organizations application for grant money to help with building and maintaining trails in the long ignored Lost Sierra region. These trails bring in recreationalists to rural communities where they spend money and help to create jobs. Additionally, the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has a multi-decade track record of putting grant money to good use and leveraging volunteers to make the money go even further. Please support their application for this grant. Thank you. Steve Stewart - 3/25/2025

I am writing to support SBTS efforts to build and maintain trails. Trails are an asset for recreation and economy to the community and well built trails don't damage the environment. Bruce Nikolai - 3/25/2025

Thank you to the OHVMR Grant Program for supporting the Sierra Buttes program in and around Downieville. I live in Los Angeles but travel to the Downieville/Quincy areas twice a year to mountain bike the amazing trails there and enjoy the inviting local towns and great people who live there. I also donate to the Stewardship program ever year which is the least I can do so show my appreciation for all of the hard work that goes into maintaining the trail systems that I many others enjoy while being surrounded by amazing scenery. Thank you for your continued commitment to supporting these trails. James Nicholson - 3/25/2025

I support the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship because it helps provide safe recreational trails that offer a wide variety of trails for the public. Preparing and maintaining the trails that are usable for all is important. The work provides visitors to the communities and employment opportunities. Diana Durham - 3/27/2025

Hello, I'm an avid offroad dirtbike trail rider and wanted to voice my support for the work these guys are doing in the Lost Sierra. With the fire that went through there a few years back there is lots of deadfall and definitely a need for some trail maintenance. I hope the grant is awarded to them. Thank you, Justin Gastrich - 3/27/2025

Fully support the project. SBST continues to do impactful work in partnership with Federal, State, and Local authorities. Daniel Pargee - 4/1/2025

I support grants and funding for the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. The Downieville trail network provides tremendous recreation opportunities for residents of Northern California and Northern Nevada. Additionally it provides local jobs and supports local businesses in the region by bringing in much needed tourism. Morgan Rumzie - 4/1/2025

I am writing in support of Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship’s annual Ground Operations grant through the OHMVR Grants Program for trail maintenance on 129 miles of motorized single track in the Downieville Trail System on the Tahoe National Forest. My family looks forward to visiting the Downieville area every summer, and riding and hiking on the trails maintained by SBTS. I have been riding these trails since before my kids were born, and now they are teenagers, riding the trails better than I can! The work that SBTS has done to make these trails world class, relatively safe, and sustainable, is incredible. It is so important to support the work that SBTS does on these trails to continue keep them safe for families like mine, and to make them sustainable for generations to come. They are an important driver of the local economy, and bring in visitors from far and wide to enjoy the Lakes Basin / Lost Sierra area! Thank you for considering my comment. Heather Day - 4/5/2025

This area is a bucket list of mine to go and ride. It’s nice to go to place to ride that maintains their trail systems. It’s also a goal of mine to start volunteering with these programs and doing my part to keep the trails open for years to come. Erik Fink - 4/7/2025

Funding for the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship work will continue to help drive visitors to the Downieville area, which generates jobs for locals as well as recreation opportunities for locals and non-locals alike. The funding also ensures that existing trails are maintained and don't cause erosion runoff into adjacent creeks, streams and rivers. Jamie Bate - 4/14/2025

I am writing is support of Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. I travel to the Downieville area at least 2-3 times every year from Lassen County to enjoy the town and the trails, and I think the work they are doing in Sierra County deserves our support. Casey Clark - 5/5/2025

Would love to give some input to your OHV park. I grew up riding with my dad, brother, and ex-husband. Hollister, Penny Pines, Forest Hill, Cow Mountain, etc. Please include: - Jumps - A rest area for picnics - Bleacher seats for audience areas - Moguls - A campfire / tent area for tourism - Water sources and gas station (LOL) Thank you for allowing our input. Brenda Ruscigno - 3/17/2025

Commission Members; I am writing in support of the pending grant application from the Watershed Research and Training Center to perform maintenance and related improvements to the Pilot Creek Watershed routes in the Six Rivers National Forest, in Humboldt and Trinity Counties. As a life member of the Far West Motorcycle Club, life member of the American Motorcycle Association, and an avid off road motorcyclist since 1970 or so, I support this project. As you will likely hear from others, SRNF had no recreation officer for many years and has only recently had the resources for staff dedicated to this. The Pilot Creek watershed is my primary riding area, as seasons allow. Aside from the very different experience at the Samoa Dunes, it is essentially the only public land accessible to the OHV community of Humboldt County. The opportunity to leave the coastal environment around Humboldt Bay and to be immersed in an entirely different ecosystem in less than an hour is an amazing and treasured experience. Over the last several decades, this has become more and more challenging as the historic (old prospecting and ranching) trails we use have seen little to no maintenance, been replaced by roads, replaced by fire breaks, lost to fire scars, and sometimes simply erased from the extremely poor quality SRNF motor vehicle map. This lack of opportunity is a left-handed, tacit form of encouragement to the off-road community to go off route to try to connect trails and to constantly attempt to skirt downed trees and other trail damage. The lack of maintenance absolutely has a detrimental effect on the forest (and the user experience) that can be greatly mitigated if the work envisioned in the grant application is completed. There is an opportunity here. The trail treads are still there. The terrain lends itself to responsible off-highway vehicle recreation. It is only an hour or so from the local population centers of Eureka and Arcata. Some of the user groups with a vested interest are Far West M/C, Lost Coast Four Wheel Drive, North Coast Recreation Coalition, Emerald Triangle Off Road, and Redwood Coast Mountain Bike Association. Many members of the aforementioned are Red Cross and chain saw certified and ready and willing to show up for volunteer days. To sum up, I favor this project because: * The current status of the trails is deteriorated and presents an almost insurmountable bar to entry for all but the most experienced off-roaders. * The Watershed Research and Training Center is a proven entity with a history of successful trail maintenance and development, well-practiced in leveraging their grant monies with volunteer efforts. * Pilot Creek is an extraordinary environment, and the terrain is well suited to motorized recreation. * Pilot Creek is the closest forested public land with OHV trails accessible to Humboldt County Residents. * Maintenance of existing trails, development of a designated rustic staging area(s), and signage will make this area accessible to a much larger group of people for motorized recreation. * Developed "loop" routes have the potential to greatly reduce off-trail and closed trail usage. Thank you, Tony Lucchesi - 3/20/2025