Red Rock District seeks public comment on trails

[chumley]

I think they'd like to hear from us!

Red Rock District Seeks Comments on Forest Trails
For Immediate Release
Date: May 20, 2010
Contact: Coconino Supervisor's Office - 928-527-3600

Verde Valley, AZ —The Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest is in the process of reviewing its urban trail system and the need for adjustments to better serve the public and to reduce impacts. Areas of consideration include trails and trailheads within the greater Sedona area and north of Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Trails included in this review are non-motorized, are located outside designated Wilderness, and are situated in popular use areas. A map of the Red Rock District system trails and trails under consideration is available at the district office for individual review or go to http://www.coconinoforest.us. Based on public comments and natural resource considerations, the District Ranger will make a decision as to what trails and trailheads will be included and maintained in the Red Rock trail system.

Several reasons have compelled the Forest Service to examine its trail and trailhead system. Currently, a number of “non-system trails” already exist that are not authorized nor have they received appropriate biological surveys. These non-system trails developed as a result of frequent visitor use and/or through unsanctioned construction by the public. The existence of these trails may indicate a need for additional trail routes or connections. Adopting and maintaining selected routes may allow continued access, while preventing erosion from multiple unmaintained non-system trails. Adoption and marking of these trails would not only help prevent visitors from losing their way, it may minimize impacts to resources and private property, for example near Soldiers Wash. Some proposed trails offer loop opportunities outside of Wilderness, thereby helping to relieve some of the pressure on Wilderness in popular areas, such as near Bell Rock. Additional trails may also serve to help disperse use, and reduce crowding.

Comments are most helpful if received by June 30, 2010. Direct your comments to Jennifer Burns, Red Rock Ranger District, P.O. Box 20429, Sedona, AZ 86341, or e-mail to jmburns@fs.fed.us. A decision on the trail and trailhead system is anticipated in 2011.

How many "non-system trails" do you think are on HAZ? :roll: