Officials have given final approval to a blueprint for motorized travel in areas of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.
Forests Supervisor Cheryl Probert signed a Record of Decision for the Clearwater National Forest Travel Plan, determining what types of travel would be permitted within Recommended Wilderness Areas. The recent decision states that motorized and mechanized travel will be restricted year–round on all trails in the RWAs covered under the Travel Plan, with one exception – Fish Lake Trail Number 419, located in the North Fork Ranger District, will be open for travel during the summer months.
Bicycling, which falls under the definition of motorized and mechanized travel, is covered under the regulations. The decision also states that over–snow motorized vehicle use will be restricted year–round in RWAs and on Fish Lake Trail. However, it was determined that summer motorized and mechanized uses of Fish Lake Trail would not have a significant adverse effect on wilderness character in the RWAs.
The decision comes following several years of controversy surrounding the Travel Plan, which was originally signed in January 2012. The plan was litigated a few months later by user groups concerned over motorized access in RWAs. To resolve the litigation, the Forest Service agreed to develop a new plan that addresses those concerns. (USFS)
