The second comment period has an alternative to increase the number of non-motorized (bicycles, foot, and horses) and motorized trails to over 19. If the non-motorized and motorized trails were approved, the areas below would have major changes:
1. Warner Lake would have two new loop trails.
2. Dark Canyon would have a trail into the upper cirque.
3. Jimmy Keen Flats would be a play area for bikes with multiple loops.
4. Squaw Springs would have a downhill trail similar to Moonlight Meadows.
5. La Sal Pass would be subject to commercial shuttles from state property.
6. Boren Mesa would be circled by a new trail.
7. Burro Pass trail would be extended down the west fork of Mill Creek and around Hay Stack Mountain.
8. A proposed motorcycle trail would allow easy circling of the entire mountain.
The first comment period only included six of the currently proposed 19 new trails. The comments below, from the first comment period, can be used for the second period:
1. Negative impacts on wildlife.
2. Negative impacts on watershed, riparian areas, and soils.
3. Social conflicts between bikers, hikers, and horsemen.
4. Dangerous conditions to horsemen and hikers from speeding bikes.
5. Erosion into streams and lakes from multiple trails through wet areas.
6. Negative impacts on cultural resources.
The final proposal is expected to be approved this summer and can be a combination of any of the trails in all three alternatives. The Forest Service has information on their website or will provide details at the local office. Comments are preferred by March 10, but will be accepted later.
—Bill Love
Moab