N. Cal. Suit Against USFS

[Grumpy]

County joins suit vs. Forest Service
Written by Nick Grube, The Triplicate May 07, 2010 04:49 pm
Groups seeking more access to roads and trails



Del Norte County is joining several special-interest groups in a lawsuit against the U.S. Forest Service that alleges the federal agency failed to follow proper procedure before releasing a map that designates what roads and trails are open to motor vehicles in the Smith River National Recreation Area.

Many of the plaintiffs in the case are associated with off-highway vehicle user associations, such as the Blue Ribbon Coalition and North Coast Cliffhangers 4-Wheel Drive Club, that have been critical of the Forest Service’s policies as they relate to access to its road system.

In particular, these groups have bristled at a Motor Vehicle Use Map the Forest Service published in September 2009 as part of its Travel Management Rule that requires the agency to designate which roads will be open to motor vehicles.

According to the Forest Service, this map is needed to enforce laws related to motor vehicle use within its land base while also protecting the natural resources and interests of other recreationists.

The map has been the subject of much debate as both off-highway vehicle enthusiasts and county officials have said it reduces the number of roads available for recreation and was created by the Forest Service without any input from local stakeholders.

“In general, the Motor Vehicle Use Map that came out is extremely restrictive,â€