Forest Service Invites Input on Mammoth Scenic Loop Off-Highway/Over-Snow Vehicle Staging Areas

BISHOP, Calif., Feb. 11, 2013 – The Mammoth Ranger District of the Inyo National Forest is proposing the redevelopment of two user-created Off-Highway Vehicle/Over Snow Vehicle (OHV/OSV) staging areas adjacent to the Scenic Loop north of Mammoth Lakes, CA. This project will improve resource conditions and recreation opportunities at two locations where OHV/OSV staging is currently taking place and resource impacts are occurring. Proposed work could include leveling and paving, containment of staging areas, informational kiosks and signs, and restoration of user-created areas not needed after project is complete. Details for each area are described in the Proposed Action.

The Mammoth Ranger District has made a preliminary determination that this proposal requires the completion of an Environmental Assessment (EA). An Initial Study will be completed to determine what level of analysis is required to fulfill the agency’s responsibilities in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act, as funding to construct these trailhead facilities is available from the California State Parks and Recreation, OHV Division. A scoping document is now available for public review at the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center or on the Inyo National Forest’s website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/inyo/.

Written, fax, hand-delivered, and electronic comments concerning this project will be accepted until March 15, 2013. Please submit your comments to: District Ranger Jon Regelbrugge c/o Jon Kazmierski, PO Box 148, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546. The office business hours for those submitting hand-delivered comments are: Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center, 8:00-5:00, 7 days/week, excluding holidays. Electronic comments should be submitted to jkazmierski@fs.fed.us.

Additional information regarding this project can be obtained from: Jon Kazmierski, (760) 924-5503 or e-mail: jkazmierski@fs.fed.us.