Helping with the caribou closure

On March 30, a group of backcountry riders explored the caribou closure boarders to help determine what would be needed to protect the areas from accidental trespass. While maps distributed by the Forest Service are helpful, trying to relate lines on a map to actual on the ground locations is very difficult. It is going to be a formidable task to clearly identify where the boarder line is for the closure area.

As we surveyed the area we were able to determine the most critical points that need to be signed by those agencies enforcing the order. Using the maps furnished by the Forest Service and GPS experts we will be offering input that we hope will be useful.

The confusion of changing boundaries — over the last year, lack of maps and no on location signs will lead to some straying into the thousands of acres of the closed areas. Some may try and exploit these trespasses as mass violation, but the mass majority of snowmobilers have respected the temporary closures ordered by the court.

We are confident that unbiased research will provide the path to a fair caribou recovery and winter recreation strategy. The key is to allow biologist who are not affiliated with any special interest group to present their research.

TOM HOLMAN

Priest Lake Trails

and Snowmobile Club