The USDA Forest Service is seeking public input on the Fossil Creek Comprehensive River Management Plan.

The public has a chance to object to the final decision of the Fossil Creek Management Plan and Forest Plan Amendment. Objections will only be accepted from those who have previously submitted timely comments regarding these planning efforts during any designated opportunity for public comment unless based on information not available during an earlier designated opportunity for public comment (i.e., new information).

It’s important to note, a lot of things have changed since this final decision was made. Folks should consider the new changes under the Trump administration and be sure this proposal aligns with the new NEPA rules.

Likewise, we should object to the permit process that prohibits motorized through traffic on forest road 708. It is a violation of ARS 37.931 that gives Arizona authority over the road under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act. It should be open to all through traffic regardless of its condition.

This proposal mentions that forest road 708 will be repaired if funding is available. The Great American Outdoors Act provided that funding and the final decision should be updated to include a detailed plan to repair the road and open it to through traffic.

To find out how to object to this process, READ THIS (.pdf).

To visit the project website and read the documents, CLICK HERE.

Author: Kevin Allard

Kevin is an American outdoorsman born and raised in rural Arizona who grew up exploring the Arizona backcountry with his father. Today, he and his son travel to the most remote regions of Arizona, scavenging for the remains of early western pioneers. As a lifelong outdoorsman, Kevin has learned to stick close to his roots while engaging in important advocacy work regarding motorized access to public lands. You can find his work in many local and nationwide publications, including The Western Journal, 4Low Magazine, and his website AZBackroads.com.