Recreation drives a forest
Now, a draft of the forest's 15-year management plan, released this August, has sparked controversy. Vail Resorts, ATV drivers and some mountain bikers have protested the closing of roads and trails, while some environmental groups say the agency's preferred plan allows too much logging and not enough protection for the 2.3 million-acre forest.
Forest spokesman Lynn Kolund says the public comment period on the plan, which weighs a hefty 14 pounds, has been extended from three months to six months. Rep. Scott McInnis, R-Colo., was among those urging Forest Supervisor Martha Ketelle to allow more time; he has not taken a position on the plan's goal of greater protection for the forest and its natural resources.
The comment period ends Feb. 9, 2000. A 48-page summary is available from the White River National Forest Supervisor's Office, P.O. Box 948, Glenwood Springs, CO 81602. The entire plan is on the web at www.fs.fed.us/r2/whiteriver/planning.html.
* Ali Macalady and Karen Mockler
