Comments sought on winter recreation proposals for Pinedale Ranger District
Comments on Pinedale Sled Dog Classic and Wind River Mountain Festival due by January 20, 2018
by Bridger-Teton National Forest
December 21, 2017
PINEDALE, WYOMING – The Pinedale Ranger District, of the Bridger-Teton National Forest is seeking public comment regarding two recreation events that are proposed for February and/or March.
The first proposal is the Pinedale Sled Dog Classic to be held in February. Historically this multi-day sled dog race would occur on the groomed Wyoming State Snowmobile trails in the Upper Green are of the forest. This year, they are proposing to hold the races on Fremont Lake. If analysis determines this not to be feasible, the second option of Willow Lake will be analyzed. In event that neither option are feasible, the Green River snowmobile trails will be utilized, as there were no additional resource or public concerns following this event in previous years.
Also, the Wind River Mountain Festival proponents are requesting authorization for a Winter Non-Motorized Race, which involves skiing, biking (non-motorized), and running on the groomed snowmobile trails in the Upper Green. This race would have two options; one being 28-miles long and the second being 40-miles in length, utilizing groomed Wyoming State Snowmobile Trails (CD, N, and GL). The proponents are considering a date of late February or early March.
Effects to extraordinary circumstances will be reviewed to determine if the projects can be categorically excluded from documentation in an Environmental Analysis (EA) or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Each permit includes requirements and operating procedures that are designed to prevent impacts to natural resources and assure that Forest Service management objectives and public safety are met. These provisions have been adjusted as needed over time. As such, significant issues are not anticipated.
Based on the environmental analysis and public input, the Pinedale District Ranger will decide whether or not to issue the above mentioned Recreation Special Use Authorizations for 5 year terms, and if so, determine if any modifications are needed to the permitted use(s).
Public comments are requested by January 20, 2018. For more information, questions or comments regarding this recreation event proposal, please contact Thea Koci at the Pinedale Ranger District Office at 307-367-5741, tckoci@fs.fed.us, or P.O. Box 220, Pinedale, WY 82941.
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