Agency Reverses Proposed Parks Policy (ATVs)

[NorthernSun]

WASHINGTON -- The Interior Department on Monday reversed a controversial proposed national parks policy that would have allowed more use of snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles and put less emphasis on conservation.

A draft of the new policy stresses that when there is a conflict between preserving and using natural and historical places, conservation will remain the parks' predominant job.

http://www.newsday.com/news/politics/wire/sns-ap-national-park-guidelines,0,2260964.story?coll=sns-ap-politics-headlines

A little good news

[Judi Lynn]

1. This is absolutely unexpected, isn't it?

Good luck to this former Governor of Idaho, the new Secretary of the Interior. Never expected anything decent to come from the _Bush administration. There must be a catch somewhere.



Dirk Kempthorne

He looks far more responsible than the pResident. From the article:

The new draft also says the parks should aim for the highest clean air standard, preserve their solitude and keep lands eligible for wilderness designations free from snowmobiles, ATVs and other intrusion.

Kristen Brengel, a lobbyist for the Wilderness Society, described the new policy draft as a good, hopeful possibility.

"Now Kempthorne will have his first opportunity to show whether he can be a true steward of the national parks," Brengel said.

[VegasWolf]

3. Wow, someone in the Bush Screwup Co. has a conscience. Wonders

never cease.

[Scout]

2. yes, a little good news...

I understand some people like them, but I can't stand snowmobiles and ATVs. At least for pure recreational purposes.

They would definitely spoil any experiences I would have in our national parks.

[patrice]

4. Good News! But -

Aren't they still trying to sell the Parks?

[Robb]

5. I'm a classic split-personality user on this

When I'm hiking, I can't stand snowmobiles. When I'm riding a dirt bike (motorized), I can't stand hikers. :)

Places need to be set aside to keep the internal combustion engine out. I think the challenge for the DOI and the Forest Service is to tread lightly on the multiple-use issue. It's difficult, because the numbers of dual-sport motorcycle riders are climbing, and the feeling is still that everything must be shared.

But "preserved for the enjoyment of future generations" has to mean anticipating future generations that just don't tool around on fossil fuels. And I say that as a responsible rider, with a very quiet four-stroke bike. Spreading out use "evenly" reflecting only on current users is a short-sighted mistake.

Will I miss high-country riding? Absolutely. But greater good, grandchildren, and all that. :)