2026 Public Comments to Preliminary Applications

I support this project because it focuses on maintaining and protecting existing OHV routes while improving safety, signage, and rider education. These efforts are critical to keeping riders on designated trails, reducing environmental impacts, and preventing unnecessary closures. Continued maintenance and monitoring help ensure long-term access for the off-road community while promoting responsible recreation. This is exactly the type of project needed to sustain and enhance OHV opportunities in the Eastern Sierra. Katie Gustavsen - 3/17/2026

Fort Sage and Rice Canyon offer great dirtbike riding opportunties and facilites. Due to the sandy terrain maintence is needed. Thank you to the BLM staff for their hard work! Bill Pinder - 3/20/2026

Hello, I grew up and still reside in the Shasta county area. I grew up in a family of OHV enthusiasts and married into a family of OHV enthusiasts. The Chappie OHV area has been a huge part of our family life and one the greatest assets to OHV enthusiasts both locally and from afar. I have both competed in sanctioned events and used the area recreationally. At times I have utilized the trail system multiple days a week. Our area has a long history of competitors and teams riding and training at Chappie who have competed successfully in multi-national events. Chappie OHV’s connection to the surrounding area makes it a great stop for adventurers and overlanders. The campground’s scenic setting at the base of Shasta Dam is incredible. I would greatly appreciate the continued investment in this area’s OHV infrastructure. Brent - 3/11/2026.

This project meets a critical need for sustaining OHV recreation in this highly visited area. The Caldor Fire impacted large portions of the Eldorado Forest, shifting use patterns and concentrating use in certain areas. The proposed activities address some of the impacts from the changes in use. In the future, I would encourage the Forest to include more for routine maintenance of the many miles of trail on the Forest, including in those areas affected by the Caldor Fire. The project identifies work to be done to clearly address where vehicle travel has gone off of designated routes or created new unauthorized routes. However, it is not clear if this is being done by volunteers or Forest Staff. This work is critical to the long term availability of the designated routes. As such, I would encourage the Forest to include adequate funding to ensure this work is completed in a timely and efficient manner. Lester Lubetkin - 3/11/2026

I am submitting this comment in opposition to the Inyo National Forest OHV grant proposal based on deficiencies relative to OHMVR program priorities, scoring criteria, and demonstrated public benefit. While I recognize that planning grants are an eligible use of OHMVR funding, eligibility alone does not justify funding. Planning projects should demonstrate a clear and credible pathway to on the ground implementation, including identified follow up actions, prioritization of specific maintenance needs, and a realistic ability to execute improvements within existing regulatory constraints. In this case, the proposal does not establish that connection. Given current limitations surrounding travel management and route designation, it is unclear how the data collected through this project will translate into actionable outcomes such as trail additions, maintenance, or improved access. Without that linkage, the project risks becoming an internal planning exercise rather than delivering measurable benefits to the OHV community. First, the proposal is primarily a planning and inventory project with no clear commitment to performing maintenance, repairs, or improvements. OHMVR funds are intended to support tangible outcomes such as trail maintenance, restoration, and sustainable access. This proposal instead allocates the majority of funding toward data collection and administrative functions, with no guaranteed implementation of improvements. As written, the project produces information rather than results. Without committed follow on funding or identified maintenance actions, the benefit to OHV users is speculative and does not meet the intent of the program. Second, the budget is heavily weighted toward staff time and seasonal labor, with minimal allocation toward materials, equipment, or actual trail work. This raises significant concerns regarding cost effectiveness and whether OHV trust funds are being used to support agency staffing rather than recreation outcomes. Third, the proposal places significant emphasis on documenting unauthorized routes and incursions into restricted areas. While compliance is important, the project lacks balance and does not include measurable commitments to expand riding opportunities, add routes to the MVUM, or improve existing trail conditions. The only reference to adding routes is described as a possibility, with no defined metrics, targets, or examples of past success. This creates a strong likelihood that the data collected will be used to justify closures rather than enhance access. Fourth, current federal policy direction indicates that travel management frameworks are under review and may be subject to change. Given this uncertainty, and the fact that route designations require formal environmental analysis and public process, it is unclear how the proposed project can realistically achieve its stated goal of influencing route designation or adding trails to the MVUM in the near term. This calls into question the feasibility and timing of the project’s stated benefits. Fifth, the proposal contains internal inconsistencies. The Forest states that it already conducts monitoring, maintains databases, and performs patrols across its system, yet simultaneously claims a need to create a comprehensive inventory framework. This duplication suggests that the project may not represent a true unmet need, but rather a refinement of existing internal processes. Sixth, public engagement for this proposal appears limited. The application cites minimal outreach and participation, which does not demonstrate broad support from the OHV community. Finally, the proposal does not address the known maintenance backlog across the Inyo National Forest. Lack of maintenance leads directly to resource damage, safety concerns, and eventual closure of routes. Prioritizing additional study over actual maintenance delays needed action and does not serve the recreating public. In summary, this proposal prioritizes planning over implementation, staffing over stewardship, and enforcement over access. Given the lack of committed maintenance outcomes, questionable cost effectiveness, and uncertainty regarding travel management applicability, I respectfully request that this application be denied or rescored to reflect these deficiencies. OHV funds should be directed toward projects that perform actual maintenance and restoration, improve trail conditions and sustainability, and expand or secure continued access for the recreating public. Thank you for the opportunity to comment. Scott Stoner Dirt Ninjas OHV volunteer group - 3/17/2026

Hello, I'm writing in support of the Los Padres National Forest's ground operations grant proposal. I've lived in the Frazier Park area for over 30 years and enjoy our surrounding mountains and OHV opportunities especially the trails on the Mt Pinos & Santa Lucia Districts. Our current Mt Pinos and Santa Lucia District rangers Karina Medina, Ben Gray and Mt Pinos Recreation officer Ari Songer have worked much closer with local volunteers, personally helped on OHV trail projects and have been more helpful with OHV user groups than previous forest management I've experienced Please consider fully funding their grant application to help them continue with the great work they've been doing! Thank you for your time! Tommy Hastings - 3/6/2026

Less than 1% of users on the PNF are OHV. This is according to the PNF's own surveys. Why then the focus on new OHV development? Didn't we eliminate some 1,300 miles of OHV illegal trails in 2005? Why are we doing this again? Most users are hikers on the PNF. Let's do that. Please consider the results of your 2025 survey when they come out. Please develop trails accordingly. Thank you Lane P. Labbe' 3/15/2026.

I fully support the Phase 2 East Zone connectivity grant. This grant will continue the work already started to increase the amount of motorized legal, multi-use single track in the Truckee area. There is a tremendous need in the area for more legal motorized trail. Frank Havlik - 3/11/2026

I am writing in full support of the East Zone Connectivity Project and the grant under consideration for Phase 2. Phase 1 of this project has been fantastic for the region and Phase 2 will build upon that success. I urge the grant review committee to approve this grant request. John Manocchio - 3/12/2026

I am greatly in support of expanding trails in the Tahoe National Forest. These trails are a great way for my friends and family to recreate and support local small businesses in the Tahoe and surrounding communities. These opportunities to increase riding areas for multi-use trails is a great use of the OHV funds and is what the funds were designed to be used for. Please grant for further development. Keith Collins - 3/12/2026

As a partner with the USFS Truckee Ranger District, we are writing in full support of the East Zone Connectivity Project and the grant under consideration for Phase 2. Phase 1 of this project has been fantastic for the region and Phase 2 will build upon that success. As a non-profit assisting with the development of this project, we urge the grant review committee to approve this grant request. Truckee Dirt Riders - 3/13/2026

As a resident of Truckee for over 25 years, I fully support the grant proposal for improving and expanding recreation opportunities for Dirt Biking. Currently, there are not enough miles of approved trail to support current use levels, resulting in networks of unauthorized routes. Unauthorized routes are causing resource damage to our forest and creating user conflicts among public land users. Bill Pindar - 3/15/2026

The East Zone Connectivity Project will be a valuable and popular addition to outdoor recreation opportunities in the region. The existing completed sections are extremely popular and well used. Riders are asking for more!! I've heard positive comments riders from as far away as Marysville, Sacramento, Napa, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Please keep up the good work! Erik Johnson - 3/15/2026

This is a great new section of trail. I fully support this project! Chris Bartkowski - 3/17/2026

I am writing in full support of the East Zone Connectivity Project and the grant under consideration for Phase 2. Phase 1 of this project has been fantastic for the region and Phase 2 will build upon that success. I urge the grant review committee to approve this grant request. Taylor Cranney - 3/19/2026

California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division Sacramento, California Re: Letter of Support – City of Needles Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Staging Area Project Dear California State Parks OHV Division: On behalf of Colorado River Medical Center, I am pleased to provide this letter of strong support for the City of Needles’ application to the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division for development of an Off-Highway Motor Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Staging Area. As the sole acute care hospital serving Needles and the surrounding tri-state region, Colorado River Medical Center understands both the recreational value and the public safety responsibilities associated with OHV use in our community. Needles is uniquely positioned as a gateway to significant off-highway recreation areas that attract visitors from across California, Arizona, and Nevada. Establishing a designated, well-planned staging area will promote safer access, better organization of riders and equipment, and improved emergency response coordination. From a healthcare and public safety perspective, a formal staging area provides several important benefits: Improved Safety Infrastructure: Designated access points, clear signage, and organized parking reduce confusion and lower the risk of preventable injuries. Emergency Access and Coordination: A centralized staging location enhances response times for EMS and public safety agencies, including coordination with our emergency department. Community Health and Economic Stability: Outdoor recreation supports physical activity, tourism, and economic vitality—factors that contribute positively to community well-being and local healthcare sustainability. Education and Injury Prevention: The project creates opportunities for safety education, responsible riding outreach, and collaboration between the City, public safety agencies, and healthcare providers. Colorado River Medical Center supports investments that strengthen both the economic foundation and public safety infrastructure of our community. The proposed OHV staging area aligns with those goals and reflects thoughtful planning by the City of Needles to balance recreation, safety, and community health. We respectfully urge the California State Parks OHMVR Division to give favorable consideration to this grant application. This project represents a meaningful investment in safe recreation, regional tourism, and the long-term vitality of Needles. Bing Lum - 3/3/2026

As a resident who resides in the area of the proposed project, I am in full support of the project scope as prepared by the City of Needles. The existing parking lot is often utilized for OHV, which causes a lot of dirt in the neighbor. The pavement of the parking area is a significant improvement to the existing parking lot. The proposed project includes basic amenities like a restroom and trash disposal. I would only recommend that the City consider adding a picnic table or bench area for residents/visitors to utilize near the Kiosk area to learn more about the approved OHMV trails. Also, the Kiosk should include emergency response contact information, such as 911 and the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Office non-emergency number. Kathy Rockwood - 3/3/2026

Needles CA Off-Highway Motor Vehicle grant is important to helping us establish our area for off road enthusiasts to make us their destination for off road fun. The site should also include a few picnic tables to provide Visitors a place to enjoy our desert. Our location in the Mojave Desert offers views of the surrounding hills and trails to the Colorado River. We are fortunate to be located on RT66 and Interstate 40 for an economic factor for our City. The center will give Needles an edge to attract Families to visit us and enjoy our area. Mayor Janet Jernigan - 3/3/2026

I think this is a terrific idea, which could influence spending within the city and increase revenue for local businesses. My concerns are liability based on the city’s part. Suggest posting signs that inform the public that the parking area is at their own risk, that any damages or loss of property are not the responsibility of the City of Needles. Also warning signs that establish warnings that trail riding or hiking is a possibly dangerous activity that is taken at your own risk. Adding a covered or uncovered picnic table type area would be a good addition. Considerations should also be made for the added expense of maintaining this area. Thomas Torrance - 3/4/2026

Hello, As a longtime owner of several RVs and side by sides, my life has been surrounded by camping. I currently own a RV rental and mobile repair business in Mohave Valley, AZ. I absolutely have supported Needles, CA as a consumer for years. I have camped at Pirates Cove for over 20 years several times a year and Needles Marina. My whole family comes to Needles, CA and it is a big family, multiple times a year. My bank is Arrowhead Credit Union in Needles, CA. Recently, I am looking a property for low-income rentals in Needles, CA. I completely support this project and see value to both consumer and the City of Needles, CA. I know this would be well received by the community. I am especially interested in your ADA accessibility as my family members are disabled and have limited trailer parking access. I also gave you feedback on your ADA compliance request. Please consider LARGE trash cans in your budget as I always see Glamis struggle with trash cans. I would love to work with the City of Needles to offer services. Thank you. I will be praying for this as I know this would bless MANY. Anna M Ochoa - 3/14/2026

Hello! ABSOLUTELLY NOT!! while this could be a good idea, California is infested with fraud, mismanagement, overtaxation, corruption, so no more money from taxpayers, instead you can cut in fraud and use that money for the above subject, thanks. Javier Santo - 3/17/2026

Public Comment – Support for Palmdale Station OHV Enforcement Grant I am a resident of the Four Points area within the Palmdale Station jurisdiction and I strongly support the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department application for OHV enforcement funding. As outlined in the application, all surrounding areas to Palmdale are private property and OHV operation is not legal in these areas. Despite this, illegal operation of side-by-sides, quads, and motorcycles on public roads, private property, and within equestrian communities has become a recurring issue. Significant portions of the Palmdale Station patrol area include equestrian neighborhoods. In these areas, unlawful OHV activity presents not only a quality-of-life issue but also a genuine public safety concern. Horses are easily spooked by high-speed OHV traffic, placing riders, children, pedestrians, motorists, and operators at risk of serious injury. The application accurately notes the size and complexity of the patrol area—approximately 800 square miles —with limited personnel dedicated specifically to OHV enforcement. In practice, this means enforcement presence is often intermittent in high-use areas where activity tends to concentrate during weekends and holidays. Based on firsthand observation, unlawful OHV use in certain communities is frequently carried out by repeat operators using the same machines and staging from predictable areas. Targeted, well-timed enforcement operations have the potential to significantly deter this behavior when resources are available. Additional funding that supports increased patrol frequency during peak usage periods, improved coordination with partner agencies, and continued public education efforts would directly benefit residents, protect private property, reduce conflict between motorized and non-motorized users, and mitigate environmental damage. I support this grant request and encourage consideration of expanded or sustained funding to address the scope and recurrence of illegal OHV activity within the Palmdale Station jurisdiction. Respectfully, Steven J. Hull Four Points Area Resident - 3/3/2026

The cost estimate appears to have omitted project costs for field work such as vehicle use/rental to provide access and transportation for required field work activities. Suggest updating the cost estimate to reflect this cost. Steve Cowdrey - 3/3/2026

I am pleased to offer wholehearted support for the Napa County Sheriff's Office application for OHV funds for a new side by side vehicle, equipment, and staff time to support their law enforcement work in the Knoxville OHV area. As one of the managers of the UC Davis McLaughlin Reserve, I have lived and worked in close proximity to he OHV area for 23 years.. During that time Knoxville has transformed from a lawless and vandalism-prone region to a clean and well-managed area for OHV recreation, that also is used by hikers, bicyclists, and academic researchers. This transformation has happened thanks to the consistent efforts of the NCSO and the BLM, but especially to the elevated law enforcement presence made possible by OHV grants. I won't reiterate what is already written in the grant application. It gives an accurate account of the positive effects the NCSO OHV program has had on public safety in the greater Knoxville region. With the recent explosion in popularity and development of side by side OHVs, it makes sense that the NCSO should switch from motorcycles to this safer type of vehicle. Paul Aigner - 3/5/2026

I encourage the OHMV program to support the Napa County Sheriff's Office's application to fund equipment needed to patrol and enforce safety in the Knoxville Recreation area (KRA). I am the resident director of the University of California's McLaughlin Natural Reserve, living and working onsite amidst the Knoxville Recreation Area. The KRA is a relatively remote area providing fantastic opportunities for the public to explore, enjoy, and understand California's wild lands, and is adjacent to the UC McLaughlin Reserve, which functions as an "outdoor laboratory" for University-level research and instruction. Unfortunately, historically the public lands in this area have also attracted members of the public who seek remote areas to conduct illegal and/or reckless activities, which can threaten the safety of the recreating public and people working on the Reserve, and damage University lands and infrastructure. I fully support the work done by the deputies from the Napa County Sheriff's department to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the KRA region. Prior to the NCS deputies increased activities in the area, the region had a reputation for being the lawless "wild west", a condition which increased patrolling by NCS office has greatly ameliorated, but a condition with is constantly changing as off-road vehicles and illegal/reckless interests evolve. A challenge faced by law enforcement is how to safely and effectively patrol the areas which the ill intended or law-unabiding public access. In order to be effective, the funding for equipment and manpower requested by NCSO is essential. I have supported the NCSO by providing access to University facilities for parking equipment, work breaks, and meetings. I am eager to do what I can to increase the legal and honest enjoyment of the public lands and safety for the entire community of this region, and encourage you to please do so as well by supporting the NCSO request for funds that will be very effective in increasing law enforcement and public safety. Sincerely, Catherine Koehler Resident Director University of California - Davis, McLaughlin Natural Reserve 26775 Morgan Valley Rd, Lower Lake, CA cell (707) 671 3473 - 3/6/2026

The Napa County Sheriff’s Office has been a huge assistance to myself and my place of work at the UC-Davis McLaughlin Natural Reserve. Reserve property shares borders with the Knoxville OHV area on multiples sides, so there is a significant need for Napa County Sheriff’s to be out patrolling to prevent trespass and keep the areas safe and lawful. I fully support their funding request for side by side (4x4) equipment that will help them operate more safely in the uneven terrain and poorly maintained roads. This funding will also allow for more patrol shifts, which is necessary as since the end of Covid restrictions there has been a noticeable increase in the use of the OHV areas and resulting problems from unsafe OHV use. The increased patrols on holiday weekends and the opening weekend of deer season is of particular importance to myself at the reserve, as it typically coincides with the most illegal activity i.e. poaching, fireworks, unsafe shooting of guns, etc. Napa County Sheriff’s Office presence during these times is very important to prevent unsafe or lawless behavior. Having Napa OHV Team in Knoxville more frequently makes myself and the reserve feel safer, and I am sure that transfers to all lawful OHV users as well. Benjamin Amann - 3/6/2026

The USFS is compromised by Sierra Buttes who directs these projects. The USFS has abdicated it's role to manage our local forests on the PNF. The trail systems developed at Mt. Hough violate several provisions of the Conservation and Open Space element of the Plumas County GP. Specifically provisions that provide for "adjacent communities" to public trails. The provisions require that adjacent communities and rural. agricultural areas are not subjected to "nuisances" created by these developments. The trails in the Mt. Hough system are designed for mountain bikers only. Other users are displaced. The trails are one way, downhill only trails that are dangerous for other users. Specifically hikers, trail runners and equestrians. These users would be at significant risk if encountering a mountain biker at high speeds. Local residents know to stay away from these trails. It's a shame. as these trails should be for all users. Unfortunately this is not the case. Lane Labbe' - 3/14/2026

Please fund the Plumas County's ground maintenance operations. These local trail systems are enjoyed by many locals and out of owners alike, and the system is an economic driver for the town of Quincy and others nearby. Especially after the DIxie Fire, maintenance is needed more than ever to keep the trails safe for users as burned trees continue to fall all over and brush grows at rapid rates. I love using this trail system myself and know many others who do so. It is becoming ever popular and maintenance is more important now than ever. Kyle Stone - 3/19/2026

Please fund Plumas County's Claremont Project development! This proposed project is so exciting and will be an incredible addition to and resource for the region. It will attract visitors and provide enjoyment and healthy activities for locals and outdoor enthusiasts, all user types. I will personally use this trail system often and know many others who will. This region needs this type of development to continue to thrive. Kyle Stone - 3/19/2026

Please continue to provide support for the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. The work they do brings enjoyment to myself and my family. The time of the trails has a significant impact on my experience every year when I travel to the area to ride and hike. I think the economic impact is important to the area. We need to be able to experience the beauty of these areas so we understand the need to protect them. If people do not have access they will not see the importance of their protection. Thank you for your consideration. Craig C Cameron - 3/19/2026

(Claremont Development) Please continue to provide support for the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. The work they do brings enjoyment to myself and my family. The time of the trails has a significant impact on my experience every year when I travel to the area to ride and hike. I think the economic impact is important to the area. We need to be able to experience the beauty of these areas so we understand the need to protect them. If people do not have access they will not see the importance of their protection. Thank you for your consideration. Craig C Cameron - 3/19/2026

(PNF Ground Operations) Please continue to provide support for the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. The work they do brings enjoyment to myself and my family. The time of the trails has a significant impact on my experience every year when I travel to the area to ride and hike. I think the economic impact is important to the area. We need to be able to experience the beauty of these areas so we understand the need to protect them. If people do not have access they will not see the importance of their protection. Thank you for your consideration. Craig C Cameron - 3/19/2026

These trails are an important part of Plumas County. I personally hike the trails at least twice a week and send our guests to the trails for a local hike. I see families out on the trails with their kids in tow, dogs in tow, and seniors like myself, bikers, and horses too. It is such a wonderful and needed asset to our community, and our health. Shelly L Hunter - 3/20/2026

I am a long-time frequent dirt biker on the OHV trails of the Los Padres National Forest. I am also an active trail maintenance volunteer in the Pozo OHV area. I’ve seen firsthand the deleterious effects the Gifford Fire has had on the Pozo OHV and surrounding area, as well as the limited resources the Los Padres National Forest has to perform the necessary repairs and maintenance. Many miles of trails have been impacted due to fuel break dozer lines and are now highly susceptible to erosion until the necessary drainage items (rolling dips, water bars, cross slope corrections, etc.) can be correctly restored. CCRTA has been instrumental in the repairs of the Pozo OHV area in 2025 and into 2026. Continued maintenance and repairs will be needed in 2027 and this grant will help to support the continued restoration of this area. Grants like these are critical in this post-fire recovery period to ensure that maintenance items and drainage improvements are performed timely to keep our trails in a sustainable state. Zach Teske - 3/9/2026

I am writing in strong support of the Friends of the Bridgeport Avalanche Center’s 2026 General Application. As a direct participant in FoBAC’s avalanche education programming, I have personally experienced the professionalism, structure, and integrity with which this organization operates. Their programs are not informal or casual efforts — they are highly organized, professionally delivered, and built on established avalanche education standards. The administrative strength reflected in this application mirrors what I observed in the field. FoBAC demonstrates strong partnerships with the U.S. Forest Service and other agencies, clear organizational structure, and responsible fiscal management. Their coordination, communication, and consistency are evident both operationally and educationally. The Bridgeport Winter Recreation Area is the only congressionally designated winter OHV recreation area in the United States. Managing safety in such a unique and heavily used area requires a capable, organized nonprofit partner. FoBAC has proven they are exactly that. Their compliance documentation, nonprofit verification, land manager coordination, and formal partnerships reflect a mature organization capable of responsibly stewarding public funding. Based on my experience and observation, they operate with transparency, accountability, and a clear public service mission. I strongly support approval of this application. Respectfully, Sean Thomason - 3/3/2026

I am writing in strong support of the Friends of the Bridgeport Avalanche Center’s Education & Safety Project for the 2026 grant cycle. I have personally attended FoBAC’s avalanche rescue course with my wife and have directly experienced the quality and impact of their programming. The one-day Companion Rescue course was hands-on, structured, and professionally delivered by instructors Andy and Kate. They were patient, clear, and exceptionally effective communicators. The training included extensive hands-on work with beacon searches, probing techniques, and strategic shoveling. The field scenarios were realistic and physically demanding — which is exactly what builds competence and confidence. The repetition and structured feedback significantly improved our efficiency and teamwork during simulated rescue situations. One of the most valuable components of the course was the “Daily Flow” framework. This structured risk-management system provides a step-by-step approach to anticipating conditions, assessing terrain, managing group dynamics, and making disciplined decisions before and during a ride. It is a practical decision-making tool that stays with you long after the course ends. I actively apply that framework in my own backcountry travel. FoBAC’s programming goes far beyond a basic safety talk. It combines forecasting, field observations, direct outreach at trailheads, structured education, and digital communication. Riders are exposed to safety messaging before their ride (forecasts), during their ride (trailhead engagement), and after their ride (conditions observations and debrief). As winter OHV participation continues to grow, structured and professional avalanche education is critical. Winter motorized users represent a significant percentage of avalanche fatalities nationwide. FoBAC directly addresses this through measurable education, consistent messaging, and field presence. This project enhances public safety, protects access to designated OHV areas, reduces user conflict, and promotes responsible recreation in avalanche terrain. Based on my direct experience in their programming, I can confidently say the outcomes are real, practical, and impactful. I strongly encourage approval of this grant request. Respectfully, Sean Thomason - 3/3/2026

Now more than ever we need the work from the ESAC organization to help OHV users make safe choices about backcountry access and recreation during winter. After a heartbreaking season of fatalities, the work they do helps prevent accidents. Please help us use our public lands safely! George Baker - 3/11/2026

Now more than ever we need the work from the ESAC organization to help OHV users make safe choices about backcountry access and recreation during winter. After a heartbreaking season of fatalities, the work they do helps prevent accidents. George Baker - 3/11/2026

I really value the information and Friends of Esac provides to me through their website and programs. I support their organization and would like this grant to be funded. Ea Tanton - 3/19/2026

I have attended ESAC educational programs with my family. They are good educational programs and I think they offer value to me and my family. Please continue to support ESAC through their grant application. Phil Tanton - 3/19/2026

Avalanche safety and education are the biggest components to the increase of alpine recreation that we have seen over the past few years. People are getting after it, but they need to be educated. In bounds and out. The avalanche centers are incredible and invaluable resources. They quite literary save our lives on a daily basis. They deserve every bit of funding available to them. Help us keep our friends and peers alive in the mountains!! Nash Mader - 3/20/2026

Dear Committee, As professors and researchers in the Department of Wildlife at Cal Poly Humboldt, we are writing to provide support for the proposed Impacts of off-highway vehicle use on coastal wildlife project submitted to your Request For Proposals by the Institute of Wildlife Studies (IWS). This project addresses important conservation, management, and recreational research questions using a scientific approach to methods and analyses. Our Department has collaborated with IWS on numerous research and educational projects across faculty, graduate, and undergraduate students and these collaborations have resulted in publications, technical reports, and graduate theses. This project would provide research and educational opportunities for our students, and we confirm our commitment to being an active partner on this project. Sincerely, Barbara Clucas, PhD (Associate Professor and Department Chair, Department of Wildlife) and Micaela Gunther, PhD (Professor, Departmemt of Wildlife) - 3/3/2026

Any projects involving SBTS is a non-starter. SBTS is not a trail stewardship, they are a mountain biking club singularly focused on developing and maintaining downhill only race track type trails which displace all other users. They are in business to make profits for their Yuba Expedition sister company. There are many examples of altruistic Trail Stewardships doing the right thing for the public at large. Carson Valley Trail Stewardship is a great example. Look them up. See how they operate, and how inclusive they are. Sierra Buttes actively discourages non-mountain bike users from the trails the PNF let them develop. These are public lands, not private lands. The PNF recently conducted their bi-annual survey on the PNF. Let's see the results. Then let's focus on trail systems for ALL OF US, not one special interest group. Lane P. Labbe' - 3/15/2026

Please fund the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship's ground maintenance operations in Downieville. SBTS does so much in this area and engages so many volunteers to keep this trail system in pristine condition. This is a world class trail system that is heavily trafficked by types of users. I love using this trail system myself and maintenance is critical to keep it open and safe for users. This trail system is also the largest economic driver in the region for the small, rural towns nearby. Kyle Stone - 3/19/2026

Please continue to provide support for the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. The work they do brings enjoyment to myself and my family. The time of the trails has a significant impact on my experience every year when I travel to the area to ride and hike. I think the economic impact is important to the area. We need to be able to experience the beauty of these areas so we understand the need to protect them. If people do not have access they will not see the importance of their protection. Thank you for your consideration. Craig C Cameron - 3/19/2026

Please continue to provide support for the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. The work they do brings enjoyment to myself and my family. The time of the trails has a significant impact on my experience every year when I travel to the area to ride and hike. I think the economic impact is important to the area. We need to be able to experience the beauty of these areas so we understand the need to protect them. If people do not have access they will not see the importance of their protection. Thank you for your consideration. Craig C Cameron - 3/19/2026

With a grant request of nearly 2.5 million and most going to salaries for this group, I hope the commission/entity reviewing applications such as this takes a concerned and measured approach to the requests from SCMF and reduce it accordingly. I also find it disheartening they (SCMF) are asking for more grant money than the entire Los Padres and Angeles National Forest's in California combined! With OHV opportunities reducing, closures increasing and environmental group pressures in California growing, I'm asking the grant program to focus on fulfilling public agency grants for OHV trail maintenance and limiting some of the extremely large requests that go to anti OHV groups and salaries such as this Thank you for your time, Tomm -3/6/2026